If the lawn signs are any indication, election season is upon us.
There is still time to register to vote, but you need to act and register before October 16 in order to participate in the November general election. (The deadline for participation in the primary election has passed.) For complete information on voter registration and your rights, visit the State Board of Elections website.
The Supreme Court’s ruling this week, upholding Ohio’s process of purging voter rolls, does not affect Maryland, but it is a reminder to be attentive to your registration. This is a right worth protecting. Have you moved? Do you wish to change party affiliations? Make those changes now. Also, effective since March 10, 2016, if you have been convicted of a felony and have completed serving a court-ordered sentence of imprisonment, you are eligible to register to vote. If you are a student who will be 18 by election day and Maryland is your primary residence, you are eligible to register to vote.
Those of us at GBCA urge you to participate in the democratic process by registering AND voting for the candidates of your choice in the upcoming elections. The cultural sector and supporters should embrace democracy and counter the false narrative that a single vote doesn’t count. Let’s rally around the Constitution and embrace a government that is “by the people and for the people.” We do not live in an autocracy. We do have the power to decide who leads and how. Artists and creatives can and should play a critical role in inspiring political engagement and participation in the democratic process.
In these heated times, taking care of yourself is just as important as your engagement. One of my favorite blogs, Nonprofit AF written by Vu Le, just published a wonderful post on mental health and suicide that is full of compassionate information and links to resources. Let’s watch out for one another and ourselves. In the words of David Spade following the suicide of his sister-in-law Kate, “It’s a rough world out there people, try to hang on.” And remember, there are people out there who love you.
In friendship,
Jeannie
