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One of the more important and greatest rights of being a United States citizen is voting.  The ability to take part in decision making, regardless of which way you lean politically.  The Constitution grants people the right to have their vote counted in elections.  Regardless of race, religion, gender, or any other identifier, each vote counts the same and allows you to express your wants and desires for how best to proceed.  Especially important for people with disabilities.  As a member of one of the largest minorities in America, approximately 20% of Americans have a disability, it is important to be involved with decisions that will have an impact on you. 

Nothing for us, without us.

Voting Checklist

  • *       Are you registered to vote?
  • *       Are you registered to vote absentee or in person?
  • *       Have a disability and will you need an accessibility accommodation at the polls?
  • *    They (your local clerk) needs to be notified well in advance of Election Day to ensure accessible equipment.
  • *       Consider signing up as an “Absentee Voter”.

First things first. 

Are you a registered voter?  Yes, no, unsure..? 

To find out more information on topics and candidates so you can make an informed decision, use reputable and non-partisan websites such as:

www.isidewith.com – Take a quick survey and find out which candidate has the same ideals as you.

www.vote-usa.org – Get candidate stances on topics to give you a more informed decision.

www.vote411.org – To get dates of upcoming debates, check voter registration, find polling locations.

www.govtrack.us - Provides access to current legislation 

MI Bridge Fact Guide - Fact guide to provide statistics on popular Michigan voting issues.

https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rights/voting-rights/ - Learn more about how to exercise your voting rights, resist voter intimidation efforts, and access disability-related accommodations and language assistance at the polls.

Sign up to be an Absentee Voter.  There are no longer stipulations of who can vote Absentee.  This option allows for you to get the ballot at home and do your homework on the issues and candidates, then mail in your ballot.  Or you can still physically take it to the polling station on Election Day.  Should something come up and you cannot go to the polling station on Election Day, setting up as an Absentee Ballot/Voter guarantees your opportunity to vote.

  • Simply contact your local clerk and say I want to be a permanent Absentee Voter.  They can mail you a form to complete and return.
  • After completing and returning the Absentee form, from that point on you will be mailed the ballot to complete on your own time. 
  • However, if you move into a new voting district you will need to complete the same process with your new local clerk.

Lastly, if you feel you have had your vote intentionally suppressed or discriminatory actions have been done to you because of your disability

*contact the Michigan Protection and Advocacy Service 1-800-288-5923.


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