In episode two of the Melanin Pearls Podcast, Yvette and Ericka welcome Patricia D. Williamson and Aaron Greene to the show to talk about the importance of voting and how voting at every level and in every election is the only way we can effectuate the legislative change required to move the needle. In this moment it’s just not possible to reimagine the system, but absolutely necessary to do so and voting is a necessary step in the direction of change. Every election is determined by the people who show up. “You’ve got to vote, vote, vote, vote. That’s it; that’s the way we move forward.” – Michelle Obama
During this episode, Yvette and Ericka welcome Patricia D. Williamson and Aaron Greene to the show and discuss the all-important topic of voting. Aaron and Patricia covered what makes the 2020 Presidential election so important but reminds us all we need to vote on the local level as well. The local level is where your tax dollars are being spent. You Mayor and Town/City Council determines WHO gets funding, how much and where funding is focused. Board of Education, Sheriff, District Attorney, Freeholder etc. Also, each and every one of us must be active, knowledgeable citizens. Research the candidates, do they align with your vision? Are the issues impacting and important to you, important to them?
We are not powerless, in fact, we are powerful. Thousands of people sacrificed their lives for justice and rights not only for themselves but for everyone that followed. We cannot be passive - we must vote! Because our lives actually depend on it! Deciding “not to vote” out of protest does not hurt them it hurts all of us. It’s not a protest, it’s a surrender.
Plan for long lines and come prepared with a chair, water, reading material, snacks and your phone charger! Remember to check the location of your polling place because changes are likely at the last minute due to COVID-19 or poll worker shortages. Check out www.vote.org to locate and confirm your correct polling location. There’s tons of information there as well - from checking your state’s voter ID laws to who’s on the ballot. Remember each state has a different ballot. Visit www.ballotpedia.com to request a sample ballot from your state. Be diligent and make sure you are completing your ballot correctly (to prevent it from being rejected/disqualified).
Below please find a few links to information referenced during the episode. This list is not all inclusive but it’s a really good place to start.
Five Ways to Vote in NJ's Nov. 3rd Paper Ballot Election
New Law: 83,000 people on probation and parole can now vote in New Jersey:
The median net wealth for Black and Brown individuals 15+ in New Jersey is just $179:
If you have questions or need help during and after the election, you can contact Election Protection at 866-OUR-VOTE to speak to a live person if you have questions or concerns about voting.
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