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We're committed to ensuring that every eligible voter in Massachusetts has the information they need to cast their ballot easily and confidently. With early voting officially open, we've got some information to make this process easy for all: Find Your Early Voting Location Early voting is available at specific locations throughout Massachusetts. Not sure where to go? We’ve got you covered. Click the link below to easily search for your local early voting site by city or town, as well as the times, and hours of operation for each location. ➡️ Find Your Early Voting Location Key Dates and Deadlines It’s important to stay on top of all the key deadlines: Early Voting Period takes place from October 22 to November 4 Absentee Ballot Request Deadline: October 30 Election Day: November 5 Make sure you plan ahead to ensure your vote counts, whether you’re voting early, by absentee ballot, or on Election Day Know the Issues: Learn About Ballot Questions and Key Races Being an informed voter is essential. From ballot questions to important local races, you want to understand what’s at stake before you cast your vote. ➡️ Read About Key Ballot Questions Learn about the questions we endorse with the help of the detailed voting guide offered by our trusted partners at the Massachusetts Voter Table. Let's ensure we make informed decisions this election! Below are the important ballot questions and reasons for voting YES : 1️⃣ Auditing the Legislature : More government transparency. 2️⃣ Eliminating MCAS as a Graduation Requirement : Fairer student assessments. 3️⃣ Unionizing Ride Share Drivers : Give drivers a voice. 4️⃣ Legalizing Psychedelics : Support mental health with proper oversight. 5️⃣ Minimum Wage for Tipped Workers : Ensure fair wages for all workers. Vote YES for a more just and equitable Massachusetts! ✅ Learn more at mavotertable.org or info@mavotertable.org . Have Questions? We’re Here to Help! If you have any questions about voting, need help with your absentee ballot, or just want to know more about the election process, reach out to us. We’re here to make voting as easy as possible for you. ➡️ Contact the Massachusetts Election Division Your Vote is Your Voice Whether you’re voting early, by mail, or on Election Day, your vote is your voice in our democracy. Make it count by taking advantage of these resources and getting your ballot in early! #EarlyVoting #Vote2024 #MassachusettsElections #YourVoteMatters #StrongerDemocracy #MassVOTE

With election season well underway, it's time to start thinking about Election Protection ("EP") volunteering! The Elections Protection Committee will once again be organizing Massachusetts' EP program for November's presidential election, and we at MassVOTE, along with other Steering Committee Members, are assisting with volunteer recruitment. We’re reaching out early to ensure our supporters have EP on their radar. Massachusetts' EP program is a statewide, non-partisan effort to ensure that all Commonwealth residents have an equal opportunity to access the ballot box. The program consists of two main parts: (1) a call center staffed by attorneys; and (2) a field program of hundreds of volunteers who provide in-person election day assistance to voters at historically problematic polling places. The Elections Protection Committee is currently interested in recruiting volunteers for the field program. In collaboration with the Elections Protection Committee, we will be providing trainings and opportunities for you to be a part of these coordinated Election Day efforts in November. In order to volunteer on election day, you will need to attend one in-person training and commit to a minimum of one three-hour shift on election day. The training takes place September 30th at 5:30 pm (virtually) . It's important to note that volunteers don't need any special qualifications—everything you need to feel comfortable in the field will be provided. We will be prioritizing the placement of field volunteers throughout polling locations in Massachusetts. We will be shifting according to proximity of neighborhoods and language accessibility needs. Last, if you could circulate this information to your network, we would greatly appreciate it. Also, if you have any suggestions as to the best location for a training for your members and volunteers, that would be very helpful. Please let us know if you have any questions by emailing us at info@massvote.org . We look forward to working with you!

In Massachusetts, the Senate recently approved a new rule to make voting easier. This change, pushed forward by Senator Cindy Creem, helps people who didn’t return their local census from being unfairly penalized by not being allowed to vote. Previously, these people were placed on an "inactive" list, making it harder for them to vote. This rule change is a big step in making sure everyone can vote easily. Many groups in Massachusetts have been working hard to remove these voting barriers, especially for Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities who were affected the most. Leaders from groups like the ACLU of Massachusetts, Common Cause Massachusetts, and the Urban League have all supported this change, saying it's important to make sure everyone can vote without trouble. The amendment's success is seen as a win for democracy. It shows that Massachusetts is leading the way in making sure voting is fair and simple for everyone. This is especially important at a time when voting rights are being challenged in other parts of the country. Now, the focus is on making sure this rule becomes a permanent part of the state budget. It’s important for everyone to keep supporting this effort, so the new rule is put into practice correctly and helps all voters in Massachusetts. This could also encourage other states to make similar positive changes for voting rights. Approval by the Senate The Senate approved the amendment on May 23, 2024. Approval by the Senate means that the amendment has passed one critical stage of the legislative process. The next steps involve the amendment being reviewed and potentially approved by the House of Representatives. If the House also approves it, the amendment will then need to be signed into law by the Governor. Once signed, the new rule will be implemented and integrated into the state's voting regulations. It's never too late to celebrate a Senate victory! THANK YOUR SENATOR FOR COSPONSORING AMENDMENT 100!

Breaking Barriers to Voting in Massachusetts MassVOTE is excited to announce our involvement in advocating for "Improving Voting Access" Amendment 100, spearheaded by Senator Cindy Creem. This crucial amendment aims to eliminate the disenfranchisement of voters who fail to return a municipal census and to enhance polling place accessibility through regular inspections. Our Advocacy Efforts Special thanks to our Director of Advocacy and Organization, Marisol Santiago, for her dedication to this cause. Alongside Common Cause, the lead organization on this project, we've launched a comprehensive campaign to rally support. On May 14, we joined forces with Common Cause and other partners to kick off this campaign, and the results are promising. Support from State Senators We extend our gratitude to the 16 Senators who have shown their support for this amendment: State Senator Pavel Payano Senator Mike Barrett Senator Robyn Kennedy State Senator Lydia Edwards Senator Mike Rush Senator Adam Gomez Senator Pat Jehlen Senator Paul Feeney Senator Jake Oliveira State Senator Liz Miranda Senator Jason Lewis Senator Jamie Eldridge Senator John J. Cronin Senator Becca Rausch And more Next Steps The next critical step is to ensure the widespread cosponsorship and eventual passage of Amendment 100. We urge you to take action by contacting your Senator and expressing your support for this amendment. Together, we can make voting more accessible and equitable in the Bay State. Partners in Advocacy We are proud to collaborate with organizations committed to this cause, including the ACLU of Massachusetts, Lawyers for Civil Rights, League of Women Voters of Massachusetts, Massachusetts Public Interest Research Group (MASSPIRG), Massachusetts Voter Table, Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston, Disability Law Center Inc., and the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts. Take Action Tell your Senator to cosponsor Amendment 100 to the Senate budget filed by Senator Cindy Creem to "Improve Voting Access." Click here to make your voice heard. If you're unsure how to take action or want to volunteer, signup below. Let's make voting more accessible in the Bay State!

On May 14, MassVOTE teamed up with several incredible organizations to host an evening of learning, discussion, and delicious Dominican food at Merengue's in Roxbury. The goal? To tackle some big questions about voting in Massachusetts and what we can do to make every vote count, especially for Black, Latino, and Indigenous communities. Did you know that Massachusetts is 21st in the country for the gap between our BIPOC population and BIPOC legislative representation? According to data from the Reflective Democracy Campaign, while BIPOC individuals make up about 28% of the state's population, they only hold approximately 13% of the seats in the state legislature. This significant disparity highlights the need for greater representation and fairer electoral systems. How Voting Methods Affect Our Communities The evening began with introductions and a warm welcome, followed by an eye-opening activity led by More Equitable Democracy. We explored how different voting methods—like winner-take-all, ranked-choice voting, and proportional ranked-choice voting—can lead to very different results. By voting on something simple, like "What’s for dinner?" participants saw how the way we vote impacts the outcomes. This activity helped everyone understand why changing how we vote can lead to fairer representation for our communities. Working for Change: Voices from the Frontlines After the activity, speakers from MassVOTE, Partners in Democracy, and Ranked Choice Boston shared their work to make elections fairer and more equitable. They talked about the importance of community involvement and offered practical ways for attendees to get involved. Hearing about their efforts inspired many in the room to think about how they can contribute to making our democracy work better for everyone. Coming Together for a Better Future This event was made possible by a coalition of passionate organizations, each bringing their own strengths and focus: GenUnity: They bring people together to build trust and collective knowledge, empowering everyday people to drive change on the issues that matter most to their communities. MassVOTE: A non-partisan group dedicated to increasing voter participation and advocating for electoral justice. +More Perfect Union (+MPU): A movement to strengthen our communities through service and leadership, creating connections that heal and empower. More Equitable Democracy: Focused on transforming electoral systems to advance racial equity and empower communities with the tools for long-term change. Partners in Democracy: Led by democracy expert Danielle Allen, this organization works to renovate our democracy with strategic changes at the state level. Ranked Choice Boston: They educate and organize for ranked-choice voting in Boston to ensure fairer election outcomes. Union Capital: This group rewards community engagement and works to cultivate equity through ongoing collaboration. The evening was not just about learning—it was about empowering our communities to take action. Attendees left with new knowledge and a sense of purpose, ready to get involved in making our voting system work better for everyone. We invite you to join us at future events and become part of this important movement. Let's close the representation gap and build a more effective and fair democracy for Black, Latino, and Indigenous communities in Massachusetts.

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.

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.

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.

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

On January 13, 2021, we spoke with Boston Neighborhood Network on the voter turnout gap in Massachusetts. Watch the full-length interview here.

By Saraya Wintersmith - GBH News - January 26, 2021 We were mentioned in GBH News calling for the elimination of Boston's special mayoral elections. Read the full piece here.

By Bill Forry - Dorchester Reporter - January 21, 2021 We were mentioned in the Dorchester Reporter calling for the elimination of Boston's special mayoral elections. Read the full article here.

Letters - Boston Globe - January 27, 2021 We wrote a Letter to the Editor in the Boston Globe calling for the elimination of Boston's special mayoral elections. Read the full piece here.

Katie Trojano - Dorchester Reporter - January 27, 2021 We were mentioned in the Dorchester Reporter on eliminating Boston's special mayoral elections. Check out the full piece here.

Bill Forry - Dorchester Reporter - January 27, 2021 We were mentioned in the Dorchester Reporter on eliminating Boston's special mayoral elections. Read the full piece here.

By: Cheryl Clyburn Crawford - Dorchester Reporter - January 28, 2021 Our Letter to the Editor on eliminating Boston's special mayoral elections was featured in the Dorchester Reporter. Read it here.