John,
There are up to 18 million formerly incarcerated Americans who have the right to vote now -- but many do not know.
Felony disenfranchisement is one of the lasting systemic structures put in place to keep people from voting. From confusing state laws to bogus requirements to pay additional fines, fees or restitution before rights are restored, returning citizens face enough barriers as they re-enter communities, and their right to vote should not be one of them.
These policies disproportionately impact Black people and other people of color. When We All Vote is on a mission to close the race and age gap in voting, dispel myths and break down information barriers that prevent people from voting.
Watch our video from 2 Chainz to learn more about voting rights for returning citizens and share it with your social networks to spread the word.
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Over 7.4 percent of Black citizens (that’s about 2 million people) are prevented from voting because of felony convictions, compared to just under 2 percent of non-Black citizens.
The criminal justice system and voting laws are affected by the people we elect to our federal, state and local governments. To change the status quo, we have to make our voices heard at the ballot box.
Every eligible voter deserves to have their say in the future of our country. Check out our brand new Know Your Voting Rights page to make sure you know your rights.
The fight to ensure every eligible voter has fair access to the ballot box is extremely important. Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Florida can enforce a law requiring returning citizens to pay court fines and fees before restoring their voting rights, which will bar some people from voting in November’s critical elections. This is what we call targeted voter suppression.
Nearly one in two adults in America -- approximately 113 million people -- has an immediate family member who is currently or formerly incarcerated.
If you’re a returning citizen, or know someone who is, the first step is to check if you’re eligible to vote and then get registered to vote. Get started here >>
Together, let’s work toward a democracy where everyone can make their voice heard in every election.
Stephanie
Stephanie L. Young
Chief Officer for Communications and Culture
When We All Vote
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