Upload
silvester-ryan
View
221
Download
0
Tags:
Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
Missing Voices: Voter Outreach Tools for
Community Organizations
Alberto Olivas, M.Ed.Director, Center for Civic ParticipationMaricopa Community Colleges
Critical VoicesWhat’s the problem?
Why does it matter?
Why don’t people vote?
What can CBO’s do about it?
What’s the problem?Voter turnout for young people
declining for decades
Even worse for the poor & minorities EXCEPT for recent upturn among
African-American youth!
SOURCE: Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement
http://www.civicyouth.org/quick-facts/235-2/
Why does it matter?Where does the money go?What rights do we have?What opportunities will you and your
children enjoy? Is your community at the table?What problems get fixed?Who has hope in the future?
Who is without hope?
Addressing Root CausesEligibility
Registration, Voting Rights, Citizenship
Information Process, Dates, Races*, Issues*
Apathy / Distrust / Cynicism
*www.maricopa.edu/civic
What CAN nonprofits do?Objective information about processes,
dates, unbiased candidate events and ballot measure presentations
Take a position and advocate on issues related to the org, clientele
Survey candidates on issues germane to the org, clientele; post responses
Contact before VR deadlinesContact before the electionContact on election dayFollow up after the election!
Answer: True AND False(Trick Question!)
Voter registration is only one of MANY ways they find
jurors. Not registering doesn’t get
you off the hook!
Answer: You decide.
Voters concerned about mailing the ballot may drop it
off at any polling place* on election day without having
to wait in line.
TRUE!
Voters can take anyone of their choice into the poll
with them, but it’s an especially important experience for kids!