Voting is Self-Care

I voted stickers scattered across a white table.
Source: Unsplash

From fire-spinning to knitting, self-care can take many forms. Another form that Green Americans like to practice is “action.”

Action can look like volunteering, calling on our senators to support environmental and socially just legislation, and protesting unjust policy and corporate practices.

This November, join Green America in taking action for democracy. First, register to vote in your state; if you are registered, make sure your information is up-to-date. Second, make a plan to vote. Are you going to vote early, send in a mail-in ballot, or vote on Election Day? Do you know your polling location?

While the Presidential Election is often the main event on Election Day, don’t forget that your county and state may have local candidates and initiatives on the ballot. Make sure you know how you are voting on all of these important items! You are welcome to bring notes to the polls in case you forget. Local and national nonprofits may have Q&As with candidates or host debates where you can learn more about issues and candidates on the ballot.

If you are all set with your registration status, please help others set up theirs! Make sure your family and friends check that their registration is correct. Doing this early prevents potential issues on Election Day. Share the Election Checklist on the other side of this page to make sure they don’t miss a thing. You can also volunteer as a poll worker or drive people to the polls on election day to help out, too.

If you are unable to vote due to immigration status, citizenship, age, disability, or crime conviction, you can still take action by being vocal for legislation and candidates you support, sharing educational materials, and volunteering at the polls or offering food and drinks to voters in line at the polls. Check your state and local laws for more information.

From Green American Magazine Issue