As a citizen of Arkansas, I believe that voting is a fundamental right and a civic duty. The ability to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy and it is essential that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to participate in our electoral process.
Unfortunately, there are currently restrictive voting laws in place in Arkansas that make it more difficult for some citizens to exercise their right to vote. In this article, I will provide an overview of these restrictive laws, their impact on voter turnout, activism and advocacy for changing these laws, a list of ways to overturn voter suppression, how to use your voice on social media, and a call to action for change in Arkansas.
Overview of Restrictive Election Laws in Arkansas
Arkansas has a long history of restrictive voting laws. In recent years, the state has passed several laws that have made it more difficult for some citizens to exercise their right to vote. One such law is the Voter ID law, which requires voters to present an approved form of identification in order to cast a ballot. This law disproportionately affects low-income and minority voters who may not have access to the necessary identification. Another law is the reduction of early voting days, limiting the time frame for citizens to cast their ballots. - read more THV11
Impact of Restrictive Voting Laws on Democracy
Unfortunately, Arkansas has a history of low voter turnout.
In the 2020 general election, only 55% of registered voters in the state cast a ballot. This is lower than the national average of 66%. In 2022 the turnout was 50.8%.
Restrictive voting laws continue to make a significant impact on voter turnout. According to a report by the Brennan Center for Justice, "States with strict voter ID laws have significantly lower voter turnout than states without such laws. This decrease in voter participation undermines the very foundation of our democracy and is a cause for concern."
Activism and Advocacy for Changing Restrictive Voting Laws in Arkansas
Despite the challenges posed by restrictive voting laws, there is reason for hope. Activists and advocates across Arkansas are working to change these laws and ensure that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to vote.
Read about Democracy Docket, a group working to protect the right to vote and expand access to the ballot box. Sign up for their newsletter to stay up-to-date. Everyone has heard of the ACLU which is always fighting for voting rights in Arkansas.
The Brennan Center for Justice is a law and policy institute that strives to uphold democracy and equal justice for all. You can find all these groups and more on social media.
Ways to Help Prevent Voter Suppression
Same-Day Voter Registration
Automatic Voter Registration
Online Registration
Preregistration of 16- and 17-Year-Olds
Expand Early Voting
Expand Vote by Mail
Flexible Election Day Options Like Curbside Voting
Convenient Placement of Accessible Precincts and Vote Centers
Social Media is a Powerful Way to Bring Attention to Voter Suppression in Arkansas
Follow and engage with Arkansas Democratic politicians and leaders. Share their content.
Follow and engage with social media influencers and celebrities who have a significant following in the state.
Create social media campaigns on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Create shareable content that highlights issues that matter to Arkansans.
Conclusion and Call to Action for Change in Arkansas
In conclusion, restrictive voting laws in Arkansas have made it more difficult for some citizens to exercise their right to vote. These laws have led to a decline in voter turnout and have undermined the very foundation of our democracy. However, there is hope. Activists and advocates across Arkansas are working to change these laws and ensure that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to vote. We must join them in this effort and demand that our elected officials take action to protect our right to vote. It is our civic duty to participate in our democracy, and we cannot let restrictive voting laws stand in the way of that duty.
The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any. - Alice Walker
Take Action Now
Join the Democracy Docket, Brennan Center for Justice, ACLU, and other organizations working to protect the right to vote. Contact your elected officials and demand that they take action to protect the right to vote and expand access to the ballot box. Together, we can ensure that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to participate in our democracy and exercise their fundamental right to vote.
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