As we approach another election season, the Grassroots Committee would like to encourage providers to host voter education and advocacy discussions with the people they support.
Voting is a fundamental right, and individuals with disabilities deserve access to accurate information, resources, and opportunities to participate in the democratic process. Whether through a group discussion, educational session, self-advocacy meeting, or one-on-one support, there are many ways to help individuals learn about voting and make their voices heard.
Below are several free resources that can help you facilitate conversations about voting rights, voter registration, accessibility, and civic engagement:
REV UP (Register, Educate, Vote, Use Your Power)
One of the most comprehensive disability-focused voter engagement initiatives in the country, REV UP provides:
- Easy-to-use voter education materials
- Nonpartisan voting resources
- Self-advocacy tools
- Accessible voter engagement activities
- Resources for providers, families, and individuals
Visit: https://www.aapd.com/revup
Minnesota Secretary of State
Resources include:
- Voter registration information
- Accessibility resources
- Sample ballots
- Election dates and deadlines
- Information on voting assistance
Visit: https://www.sos.state.mn.us
Minnesota Disability Law Center
The Minnesota Disability Law Center offers information regarding voting rights for people with disabilities and advocacy support when barriers arise.
Visit: https://mylegalaid.org
The Arc Minnesota
The Arc Minnesota provides self-advocacy resources and information about civic participation and disability rights.
Visit: https://arcminnesota.org
Self Advocates Becoming Empowered (SABE)
SABE offers national self-advocacy resources, including tools designed to help people with disabilities understand their rights and participate in community and civic activities.
Visit: https://www.sabeusa.org
Suggested Discussion Topics
- Why voting matters
- Your rights as a voter
- Registering to vote
- Accessible voting options
- How to learn about candidates and issues
- Respecting different viewpoints
- Participating in advocacy beyond voting
The Grassroots Committee encourages organizations to consider incorporating voter education into existing self-advocacy groups, day services, employment programs, or other participant gatherings this fall.
By helping people understand their rights and available resources, we can support increased civic engagement and ensure every voice can be heard.
If your organization hosts a voting or advocacy discussion, we'd love to hear about it and share successful ideas with other MOHR members.
Thank you for helping advance self-advocacy, civic participation, and community inclusion across Minnesota.
