In my home state, until 3 years ago, the only true way to vote was going to the polling place in person. For people such as myself, there are several challenges in being able to access a polling place.

In my home state, mail-in voting has been a very contentious issue, mainly being politicized. However this measure was approved by both major parties. When the proper checks, balances and protective measures are put into place, the system is nearly foolproof.

Normally, this process was reserved for voters who weren’t in their polling precinct on election day without regard to disabilities or other needs.
One of the best liberties as an adult is the right to vote and be a constituent of their community. I remember when I was attending a webinar the last few years where individuals in attendance recalled a conversation with an elected official who stated that “disabled people don’t vote.” That could be no further than the truth.

I have been involved in election advocacy since being employed with my current employer. In those meetings years ago, we learned how to let our voices be heard in the political arena. This included getting out and voting, as I have done most of my life.
I am grateful to have loving parents that are able to support me and while I lived with them, this included making me able to get to the polls even though they choose not to vote..

One of their primary concerns with voting in-person was the fact of poll canvassers lining up on both sides of the entrance way to the entrance to the polling precinct trying to persuade voters for their vote. Being bombarded by individuals who have anxiety along with sensory, communication or cognitive function challenges.

While there have been great advancements in voting equipment over the years as a result of the Help Americans Vote Act (HAVA), the challenges go beyond the equipment itself. If we are looking through the lens of the person and seeing the many challenges that are faced in accessing the polling precinct alone, having the ability to vote from home and being able to either mail it or take it to the election bureau in person provides a relief in exercising one’s right to vote when other unknown challenges may arise on election day itself.

For me, I find it best to deliver my ballot off at the county elections office as I walk past it when on our walking group at the day program. It does require passing through the metal detector, but that’s a small inconvenience in ensuring that my vote is counted and my voice is heard.