This year, November 3rd is a special day. I guess I must admit that for me November 3rd is always a special date because it marks my birthday. But for you, and the other 330 million or so Americans, November 3rd 2020 is special because its Election Day.

Article I of the United States’ Constitution protects our right to vote as American citizens. This year, voting is more difficult for Americans due to the COVID-19 pandemic and so much uncertainty around how to safely participate. Absentee ballots are a solution for many but not everyone prefers it or trusts the mail-in voting system. Others just enjoy the physical process of going somewhere like a public school gym or community center to submit their ballot in person. America’s history with voting is undoubtedly a complicated one and it’s taken numerous change agents and historic events to get us to where we are today – the 19th amendment and Voting Acts Right of 1965 are two examples of how far our Nation has had to come – and I think most of us recognize there is more work to do.

Yes, November 3rd is a date to vote for your choice for President of the United States but perhaps the more important opportunity is to influence your local governments. My ballot will include the ability to vote for my representative in congress, the assembly district, as well as my county’s district attorney, county clerk, county treasurer and more. Those individuals have the power to change daily life for us all so make your vote count and do not forget to educate yourself on the candidates beyond those running for President!

To learn more, here are some helpful resources:

https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/

https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/MyVoterInfo

https://city.milwaukee.gov/414Votes

https://city.milwaukee.gov/election

https://elections.wi.gov/voters/absentee

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