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We are excited to share this new research report, "Ranked Choice Voting Elections Benefit Candidates and Voters of Color." This comprehensive study, conducted by FairVote's senior research analysts Deb Otis and Nora Dell, with contributions from Chris Zawora and Omar Danaf, delves into the transformative impact of Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) on electoral outcomes for communities of color. Key Findings: Enhanced Political Representation: The report illustrates how RCV has led to improved political representation for people of color, analyzing the dynamics from both the candidates' and voters' perspectives. Support for Candidates of Color: Data shows that candidates of color, especially Black and Hispanic/Latino candidates, significantly increase their vote totals between the initial and final rounds of RCV elections, suggesting strong community support and strategic cross-racial alliances. Voter Engagement: Communities of color engage deeply with RCV, utilizing their full array of ranking choices more frequently than their white counterparts, which underscores a robust participation in the democratic process. The report also features insightful case studies from New York City and San Francisco, highlighting specific elections where RCV has successfully supported candidates of color in overcoming electoral challenges and securing victories that reflect the community's will. We encourage our readers to explore the full report to understand the broader implications of RCV in enhancing democratic inclusivity and fairness. The findings advocate for the broader adoption of RCV as a means to reduce vote splitting and encourage diverse candidate fields, thereby enriching our political landscapes. Read the Full Report to dive deeper into how RCV is reshaping the future of voting in America for a more equitable and representative democracy. You can also download a copy of the report below:

April 2024 is packed with important deadlines that pave the way for active democratic participation. Whether checking voter registration, engaging in policy advocacy, or considering a candidacy, your involvement is crucial. MassVOTE is committed to guiding you through this process, ensuring every voice is heard. Here’s a concise overview of what’s ahead: April 15, 2024: A Day of Civic Significance Street List Deadline: Ensuring the integrity of our elections begins with accurate voter rolls. By April 15, municipalities must have their street lists prepared (G. L. c. 51, §6), a foundational step for voter accuracy and the smooth conduct of elections. Prospective Election Officers: On the same day, it's the last call for party chairmen to submit lists of prospective election officers (G. L. c. 54, §12). The role of election officers in maintaining the fairness and efficiency of our voting process cannot be overstated. Patriots' Day Observance: Amid these important deadlines, we also celebrate Patriots' Day, a tribute to the battles of Lexington and Concord and our state's rich revolutionary heritage. This day is a reminder of the enduring value of freedom and democracy that we continue to uphold. April 24, 2024: Empowering Voters Through Policy Public Policy Petitions: Starting April 24, public policy petitions are available for circulation (1988 Mass. Acts c. 203, G. L. c. 53, §20). This is an empowering opportunity for Massachusetts voters to directly propose policy initiatives, showcasing the powerful role of direct democracy in our Commonwealth. April 30, 2024: The Pathway to the Ballot Nomination Paper Deadline: For candidates aspiring to serve in all offices except federal, 5:00 p.m. on April 30 marks the deadline to submit nomination papers for signature certification (G. L. c. 53, §§7 and 46). This is a critical juncture for candidates to officially enter the electoral fray. Legislative Action Deadline: This date also signifies the last day for the Massachusetts legislature to act on initiative petitions for laws (Amend. Art. LXXXI), a key moment that shapes the legislative agenda and the future of policymaking in our state.

MassVOTE had the privilege of participating in a significant event at Boston Latin School, organized in collaboration with Boston Cares as part of the MLK celebration. This event was a cornerstone of our activities for the month, reflecting our ongoing commitment to voter engagement and education. During this event, we focused on two main areas: 1. Voter Registration: We provided voter registration services, which is a fundamental aspect of our mission to increase voter participation and ensure that every voice is heard in our democracy. 2. Information Session on Policy Work and Organizing: We conducted an informative session to educate attendees about our policy work and organizing efforts. This session was crucial in raising awareness about the importance of civic engagement and the impact of policy on everyday lives. A highlight of the event was our collaboration with Ed Shoemaker of Ranked Choice Boston. Together, we discussed Ranked Choice Boston and delved into various policy initiatives that MassVOTE champions, such as the Votes Act. This Act is particularly significant as it includes provisions for Same Day Voter Registration, a critical step towards making voting more accessible and inclusive. The event also served as a platform for us to stress the importance of local and statewide organizing, aligning perfectly with our goals of promoting voter registration, educating the public on important policy issues, and advocating for a more accessible and representative democracy.

We enthusiastically congratulate Common Cause for an outstanding launch of their 2024 Town Hall Series, beginning in Brockton and followed by impactful events in Lawrence and Springfield. Organized by Common Cause's Election Modernization Coalition, these town halls have played a crucial role in fostering vital discussions about Massachusetts' voting laws, sharing voter experiences, and promoting advocacy for a more accessible democracy. The series commenced in Brockton with a remarkable turnout of nearly 50 attendees, setting a high standard for community engagement and support for the Voting ACCESS Act. The presence of engaged citizens and elected officials at this inaugural event underscored the community's strong commitment to democratic reforms. Following Brockton, the Town Hall in Lawrence continued the momentum, engaging voters in meaningful conversations about the importance of eliminating barriers to voting through The Votes Act. The series then moved to Springfield, where close to 40 attendees filled the room, energized by the support of local organizations and the exceptional efforts of Shanique and the Voter Table team. This event further highlighted the community's dedication to enhancing democratic participation. These town halls, each unique in their impact and community involvement, have set a powerful and inspiring tone for 2024. They demonstrate Common Cause's unwavering commitment to creating more inclusive and accessible voting processes in Massachusetts. Congratulations to Common Cause and all the dedicated individuals who have contributed to making these Town Halls a beacon of civic participation and democratic progress.

Marisol Santiago, our Policy and Organizing Director, upheld our commitment to civic engagement, enriching a recent conversation held at Brandeis University called "Make Your Vote Count." The discussion also included Professor Zachary Albert of Brandeis University and Aaron Sherb of Common Cause. Professor Melissa Stimell, the academic program director of ENACT (Educational Network for Active Civic Transformation), the main sponsor of the event introduced the panel of speakers. Marisol discussed the critical issues affecting marginalized communities and our voting rights. She addressed several key issues that we boldly stand by: Removing Barriers to Voting Rights for Marginalized Communities Adoption of The VOTES Act in Massachusetts The Important Role of Public Education and Outreach The event also served as a platform to discuss our legislative priorities, which are crucial for building equitable, accessible, and secure elections. These priorities include: The Votes Act, which aims to make the successful 2020 election reforms permanent, enhancing voter accessibility and security. Re-Precinct Boston and Same Day Registration: This initiative ensures that no eligible voter is turned away due to outdated registration, allowing registration updates on Election Day or early voting days. Decoupling Voter Registration from Municipal Census: This change will prevent voters from being dropped from the voting register due to non-response to the municipal census, maintaining the census for data collection and jury selections. Uniform Mail and Absentee Voting Forms & Ballots: Following the Lyons V. Secretary of Commonwealth decision, this aims to streamline vote-by-mail and absentee voting, reducing public confusion and administrative workload. Strengthening Accessible Polling Location Oversight: This requires regular inspection of polling places to ensure compliance with accessibility laws and enforcement measures for non-compliance.

Join us in Brockton for a workshop informing you on Why Your Vote Matters. 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Brockton Public Library 304 Main Street, Brockton, MA For more information, contact Shahara at Sjaghoo@massvote.org

April 20, 2023: Join us for MassVOTE’s Spring Soiree - our first in-person event since 2019! Mark your calendars for Thursday, June 8th, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m., because you do not want to miss this beautiful, outdoors springtime event! Tanisha M. Sullivan, President of the NAACP Boston Branch, will keynote the occasion. Sullivan is a long-time civil rights leader that has fiercely fought for the expansion of voting rights, especially in our state's routinely-overlooked communities. MassVOTE will also honor two remarkable democracy advocates during the event: Armani White and Kendra Patterson. White is the Co-founder and Executive Director of Reclaim Roxbury, a community organization that has advocated for economic wealth and an improved quality of life for Roxbury’s residents since 2015. Patterson is the Field Director of the Massachusetts Voter Table, a longtime MassVOTE ally that utilizes voter engagement tools and grassroots activism to empower the Black and brown, low income, and immigrant populations. The soiree will take place at the Bruce C. Bolling Building’s 6th floor outdoor patio, located at 2300 Washington St. in Roxbury. For tickets, please register here. All ticket revenue is tax deductible and goes to support MassVOTE’s operations. An individual ticket is $75 and a ticket for community partners, young professionals, and seniors is $35 with limited availability. We hope to see you there! All of us at MassVOTE

On Tuesday, March 28, MassVOTE's Executive Director Cheryl Clyburn Crawford joined the League of Women Voters of Massachusetts (LWVMA) and Suffrage100MA for a Women’s History Month event at the Gloucester Stage Company. Read an article on the event at the Gloucester Daily Times' website here.

On March 30, 2023, we were mentioned in MassLive on why 16 and 17 year olds should be allowed to vote in local elections. Read the article at MassLive's website here.

On March 28, 2023, we were mentioned on TV news network WPRI to discuss local election turnout, and how cities across Massachusetts may increase. Find the full story at WPRI's website here.

On March 26, 2023, we were mentioned in the Gloucester Daily Times around an event we participated in for Women's History Month. Find the story at the Gloucester Daily Times' website here.

On March 23, 2023, we were featured in the Bay State Banner around Boston's redistricting process. Read the story at the Bay State Banner's website here.

March 3, 2023: This past Wednesday, March 1, marked the beginning of Women’s History Month. During this month we honor the women who fought for the right to vote and who went up against powerful men to win elected office. It is a time when we pay tribute to the Black women who trekked through the South during the civil rights movement to fight for a more equal America. While we use this month to honor the women who have driven positive, forward-thinking change in America, we also recognize that the movement is far from over. In government and politics, women remain sorely underrepresented. They hold only 28% of seats in congress and 24% of governorships. They make up just 33% of state legislators and 26% of mayors. So this month, we aim to not only lift up those who have driven positive, forward-thinking change in the past, but those that are driving change right now. The first change-maker we would like to lift up is our own Executive Director, Cheryl Clyburn Crawford. For more than a decade, Cheryl has worked tirelessly to make democracy in Massachusetts more equitable and accessible, especially for those traditionally underrepresented, like Black and brown, low-income, and immigrant communities. She has helped ensure the passage of critical voting reforms, including permanent mail-in voting, automatic voter registration and online voter registration. She is also a member of the Attorney General’s Advisory Council on Racial Justice and Equity. Thank you, Cheryl! Keep an eye out for the history-making women we will highlight throughout the month.

On December 4, 2022, we were featured in MassLive, where we discussed voter turnout trends in the 2022 state election. Read the story at MassLive's website here.

On November 28, 2022, we were featured in the Boston Herald discussing voter turnout in the 2022 State Election. Read the story at the Boston Herald's website here.

Join us on Thursday, December 15 at 3 PM for a webinar titled, Don't Leave Your Power on the Table: Understanding Data Gaps and Barriers in Voting. Sponsored by the Women's Pipeline for Change, an initiative of MassVOTE, the webinar discusses who votes and why they vote. The webinar will ultimately dig into how women of color and people of color vote, what voter turnout gaps exist, and how we may close those turnout gaps. Beth Huang, the Executive Director at the Massachusetts Voter Table, will facilitate the webinar. At the Voter Table, Beth (she/her) works with 45 community organizations to increase voter turnout and civic leadership in communities of color and working-class people in Massachusetts. Prior to joining MVT as the Field Coordinator in 2016, Beth worked at Jobs With Justice as the National Coordinator of the Student Labor Action Project and organized emergency services workers in California with AFSCME International. Beth is a senior trainer with the Midwest Academy. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. We hope you will be able to join us at this incredible event. Click here to register now!

On November 6, 2022, we joined WCVB CityLine to discuss the upcoming election, how voters may deal with potential instances of intimidation, and more. Watch the piece at WCBV's website here.

On October 26, 2022, we were mentioned in the Boston Herald discussing the city's redistricting efforts. You can read the story at the Boston Herald's website here.