Climate and More Are On The Ballot

the unwash: impact

To think four years have passed since the last Presidential election seems unfathomable. Each year we’re hearing that this ‘election is the most consequential’ and given the severity of issues that are continually on the ballot, it’s probably a sentiment we’ll continue to hear. Understanding what’s on the ballot locally and nationally and using this knowledge to voice your vote is only part of the action we can collectively take. Daily we can vote with our dollar by supporting brands that align with our values with hopes that this can create a chain reaction to fracture the power that billion-dollar corporations have on our government. There needs to be larger systemic change to make the large-scale shifts that are needed. By working with our local communities to push for progressive politics, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and support small businesses we can spread our impact outside of election cycles. Part of getting involved on a local level is by showing up at the ballot box to elect candidates who understand what our communities need. Local office holders directly impact what is happening closest to us whether be within the school system, fixing our roads, or implementing recycling programs, and so much more. But, once again it’s time to take this sentiment to the next level by making our voices heard in the General Election. Firstly, let’s dive into what we’ll be seeing on the ballot across different states and across the county.

Climate issues, reproductive access, voting rights, and LGBTQIA+ freedoms are continually debated contenders on the ballot as issues as simple as one’s livelihood have become political hot buttons. To us, these shouldn’t be debatable topics. Access to proper health care, voting in free and fair elections, the ability to love or live your life as you choose, and taking action to preserve the environment are basic equalities that should be ascertained.

An issue that is sometimes overlooked in comparison to hot profile issues is voter suppression and voter rights. As we near election day, some states are already making it more difficult to vote and certify results including in George where the Election Board ruled that all ballots must be hand counted. Numerous states will be voting on issues regarding gerrymandering, citizenship, and rank-choice voting. In an attempt to restrict voting abilities, the Arizona ballot will include a measure that would strip voters of the right to retain or not retain judges. On the other hand, Ohio will be voting on a sweeping gerrymandering measure that would prohibit politicians, lobbyists, and political consultants from being on the redistricting commission. Gerrymandered maps have led to an extremist legislature that has attempted to discriminate against the LGBTQIA+ community and ban access to reproductive healthcare. The passing of this and hopefully similar legislation in other states would begin the process of ensuring equal access to voting and proper representation than ever before. 

Voting allows us to have a direct say in the government’s actions and ultimately how it will impact our communities. Many people don’t want to be political or don’t want to get involved in politics, but this isn’t about politics it’s about investing in our communities. Marginalized people and those outside of major metropolises are the ones that often see the largest impact, including having the government turn their backs on them, having no access to clean water or air, or having limited access to proper healthcare. All of these are issues that people deal with every day especially if you’re far outside of a major city. Many of these issues including those on the ballot are ones that you may think you won’t have to deal with the consequences of. When it comes to voting, think of your neighbor, the people around you, and the people hundreds of miles from you who are represented by the same politicians. Putting Democrat and progressive candidates in office allows us to voice our vote and in turn push for more progressive legislation that focuses on the needs of our citizens. For more information on what’s on your ballot visit Ballotpedia.