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Written by Cheryl Crawford If you’ve ever thought, my one vote won’t make a difference, I want to talk to you.  I hear this all the time: the system is broken, politicians don’t care, the Electoral College decides anyway . And I get it. The way our democracy works isn’t perfect. It can feel frustrating, confusing, and sometimes downright discouraging.  But here’s what I also know: when we don’t show up, the people who do vote get to make all the decisions. Rent prices. Wages. Student debt. Health care. Transportation. Schools. Climate. These issues don’t pause because we sit out. They’re decided with or without us.   At MassVOTE, I see what happens when people connect the dots. A teenager from Dorchester told me she had never seen anyone in her family vote. After weeks in our Young Civic Leaders program, she realized: “If we don’t show up, nobody listens to us.” That’s not just true for her — it’s true for all of us.  Another student from Mattapan registered the day he turned 18, but he didn’t know what to do next. Once he learned, he started organizing friends at his college to register and vote. Now he’s helping shape the future of his community.  And it’s not only young people. I’ve met parents, retirees, immigrants who’ve become citizens, and longtime residents who all share the same story: once they took that first step, they realized their vote carried more weight than they thought.  We’ve fought hard for reforms here in Massachusetts — same-day registration, early voting, mail-in ballots — but rights on paper only matter if we use them.  So here’s my ask:  ● Check your registration. It takes less than two minutes.  ● Make a plan to vote. Don’t wait until the last minute.  ● Encourage someone else. A neighbor, a co-worker, a cousin.  Democracy doesn’t run on autopilot. It depends on us — all of us. If you’ve been sitting out, this is your chance to step in.  Because the truth is simple: if you don’t vote, someone else will make the decisions that shape your life. And their voice will count while yours is silent.

Written By Bridgit Brown and Cheryl Crawford When Massachusetts adopted mail-in voting during the pandemic, some thought it would be temporary—a Band-Aid solution to an unprecedented crisis. But the results told another story. Mail-in voting didn’t just work; it opened the doors of democracy wider than ever before. In the September 2020 state primary, turnout surged to the highest level in two decades, with over 1.7 million ballots cast—nearly half of them by mail. By November, more than 42% of Massachusetts voters chose to vote by mail, proving that when given the choice, people will seize the opportunity to participate in ways that fit their lives. Seniors, people with disabilities, parents juggling child care, and frontline workers who couldn’t stand in long Election Day lines all found a pathway to the ballot box. That’s why, in 2022, the legislature passed the VOTES Act, making mail-in voting a permanent option in Massachusetts. Lawmakers listened to the people: convenience, security, and access matter. And mail-in voting delivers all three. Despite President Trump’s repeated attempts to discredit mail-in ballots as “illegal” or “fraudulent,” the evidence is clear. Court after court has upheld the legitimacy of vote-by-mail. States like Colorado, Oregon, and Washington—which have conducted elections primarily by mail for years—report vanishingly small rates of fraud, often less than 0.0025%. In Massachusetts, officials from both parties have affirmed that mail-in ballots are counted with the same rigor and security as those cast in person. The truth is simple: mail-in voting is not about politics—it’s about people. It ensures that a home health aide working a double shift, a single parent rushing between jobs, or an elder with mobility challenges doesn’t have to choose between daily survival and democratic participation. And that is why mail-in voting isn’t going anywhere. Once voters experience the freedom of casting a ballot from their kitchen table, of taking the time to research candidates and fill out their ballot thoughtfully, they don’t want to give it up. Nor should they. Democracy thrives when more voices are heard. In Massachusetts, mail-in voting has become a cornerstone of that promise. Despite partisan attacks, it is here to stay—because voters demand it, because lawmakers enshrined it, and because our democracy is stronger, fairer, and more representative when everyone can cast a ballot that counts. At MassVOTE, we’ve seen firsthand how vital these reforms are. From fighting for the passage of the VOTES Act, to educating voters on how to use their ballots, to building the grassroots coalitions that keep expanding access, our mission is clear: every voter, in every community, must have the tools and opportunities to participate fully in our democracy. Mail-in voting is one of those tools—and we will continue to protect and strengthen it, because the future of our democracy depends on it.

Written by Mira Donaldson On September 16th, MassVOTE and the Election Modernization Coalition (EMC) joined voting rights advocates, election officials from Maine and Vermont, healthcare professionals, housing experts, and community leaders at the Massachusetts State House to testify in favor of legislation establishing Same Day Voter Registration (SDR) in the Commonwealth (S.505, H.384). Speakers highlighted how SDR would eliminate unnecessary registration deadlines that prevent thousands of eligible voters from casting their ballots. Testimonies underscored the law’s potential to expand access to the ballot box and strengthen democracy across Massachusetts. “There is no evidence of widespread fraud in the 20+ states that already implement Same Day Registration. In fact, SDR can strengthen election security by using tools like e-poll books to ensure real-time updates and prevent double voting,” said MassVOTE Executive Director, Cheryl Crawford. The coalition emphasized that Massachusetts remains behind many other states that already allow Same Day Registration. By passing SDR, legislators can ensure more inclusive elections that reflect the voices of all Bay Staters.

Written by Mira Donaldson At Boston City Hall Plaza, community advocates and voting rights leaders stood together with one urgent demand: Massachusetts can no longer delay Same Day Voter Registration (SDR). The numbers speak for themselves. In the 2024 November election, Boston accounted for 34% of all rejected provisional ballots statewide  — even though the city makes up just 9% of the state’s population. That’s not just a statistic. It’s thousands of voices silenced by unnecessary deadlines and outdated laws. “Same-day voter registration strengthens our democracy. It uplifts residents who have long been marginalized from our processes. Twenty-three states already make this possible. It is smart and it is practical,” said Boston City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune. “Massachusetts would be wise to adopt this commonsense step to increase civic engagement and voter turnout.” Leaders from MassVOTE, Common Cause Massachusetts, ACLU Massachusetts, the NAACP Boston Branch, and the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts echoed that message, emphasizing the urgency of reform. “Our voting rights coalition recognizes the need to empower people at the ballot box now more than ever,” said Rahsaan Hall, President and CEO of the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts. “That means finally removing barriers to voting with Same Day Registration.” The timing couldn’t be more critical. On Tuesday, September 16 at 1 p.m. , lawmakers will hold a public hearing at the State House to debate SDR legislation. Advocates say this is the moment to act. Without Same Day Registration, renters, students, voters of color, and countless others remain locked out of the process because of deadlines that serve no purpose other than to keep people from participating. “Any barriers or red tape that impede the voting process do not help our condition as a community,” said Royal Smith, President of the NAACP Boston Branch. “Same Day Registration only increases voter participation, which in turn makes us a better city, state, and country.” The truth is simple: democracy works best when everyone can participate. Massachusetts prides itself on being a leader, but on this issue, we are lagging behind. Twenty-three states have already proven Same Day Registration works — now it’s our turn. The legislature has a choice: keep barriers in place or open the door wider to democracy. It’s beyond time Massachusetts joins the majority of the country in ensuring every eligible voter can cast a ballot that counts.

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!

Written by Chloe Doonan Massachusetts, now is the time to bring voting legislation into the modern age. We urge support for the Election Modernization Coalition (EMC)’s top legislative priorities: H.384/S.505: Same Day Voter Registration, H.820/S.504: Disability Voting Access Oversight, and H.799/S.503: Separating Municipal Census and Voter Registration. Common Cause Massachusetts and its coalition partners aim to reduce barriers to voting and lead the way in creating a more inclusive and equitable democracy in Massachusetts. Today, a 10-day voter registration cutoff disenfranchises thousands of Massachusetts constituents. Implementing Same Day Voter Registration will remove this unnecessary barrier. Currently, 21 states and Washington, D.C. allow same-day registration.  Implementing Same Day Voter Registration will increase voter turnout. Research indicates that interest in elections spikes closer to election day. Same Day Voter Registration will likely increase turnout in Massachusetts by 4-12% (MassVOTE).  Personal restrictions serve as barriers to voting today- consider a parent jungling multiple jobs and young children. They do not need another obstacle to casting their ballot. Let's make it easier to engage in our civic duty by removing this restrictive registration deadline.  Further, no one should be turned around from the ballot box due to a lack of accessibility. Supporting H. 820/S. 504: Disability Voting Access Oversight is also essential. This policy will ensure that all polling locations and early voting sites are inspected by the Secretary of Commonwealth at least once every four years. This will ensure necessary compliance with both state and federal accessibility laws. In the event that a site is found to be noncompliant, it must submit a corrective action plan within five days. This bill is critical to making Massachusetts elections more accessible and equitable for all voters. Finally, we urge support for H.799/S.503, a bill that will not drop citizens from the active voter list, in the event that they fail to return the municipal census. The status quo removes eligible voters from the active voting list. Currently this policy affects nearly 700,000 Massachusetts residents per year which is no small number (Partners in Democracy). Separating these necessary systems will protect voter status.  Now is the time to bring election policy into the 21st century. It’s time to take necessary next steps by implementing these policies into law. We urge support in promoting these key legislative priorities to continue to improve access, accessibility, and trust in our election system as we strive to continue to improve voting policies in the commonwealth of Massachusetts. Sourced References: Partners in Democracy: Our Legislative Agenda MassVOTE: Same Day Registration

The case for wrap around civic engagement programs and investments to build and sustain communities and social interactions in Gen-Z and Gen Alpha. By Harison Clark In a world of data models and fast paced market challenges our world seems to be changing and innovating in every facet except one. What was once touted as the future has long since been replaced by ideas of super computing or drone taxi technology but when did the youth stop being the front of innovation? In the United States we’ve enjoyed break neck pace of technological revolution after revolution making our everyday lives easier except for how we show up in our communities, but there are advocates and organizations dedicated to change this in the realm of civic engagement with all acts of change there have always been robust coalitions of people on the ground giving life to the people’s ideas. Let’s face it, it’s a fact that youth development programs in civic engagement are our only way forward to address our communities’ greatest challenges from climate change, socioeconomic disparities and mental health. However, without proper investment of resources and guidance we risk the chance that these burgeoning change makers will go unnoticed and unappreciated. Organizations like Teen Empowerment have been at the forefront of youth development and advocacy since 1992. The Center for Teen Empowerment has dedicated itself to transforming communities, creating safe spaces and investing in the power of youth and adult partnerships by launching TE studios, an arts encompassing social program where young people express themselves and promote change through positive art. TE understood the importance of elevating youth participation and ideas and saw it drastically missing in the civic engagement landscape. From this unmet need Teen Empowerment worked collaboratively to create the Boston Community Action Team or (BCAT) this civic engagement group has been responsible for voter registration canvassing, educating and holding elected officials accountable to a youth agenda and since its inception the team has worked to inform state policy on the gig economy law, advocated for restorative justice via the city of Boston’s Reparations Task Force, notably registered over 300 individuals to vote during the Covid-19 pandemic and regularly hosts talk backs and forums for youth centered policy holding elected officials accountable. The chief executive officer Abrigal Forrester had this to say about the impact he’s seen. “It is deeply inspiring to witness young people who once felt hopeless transform into passionate advocates for community change, using their voices and lived experiences to shape strategies rooted in real understanding. Youth want to lead community transformation - at TE, they are doing just that!” Just recently we’ve begun to understand the impact of policies such as the SAVE act will have on young people and their ability to be civically engaged research done by Tufts University’s Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning reports that “The SAVE Act requires that individuals present in-person proof of citizenship to an election official. According to data from the Election Administration and Voting Survey, only 6% of voter registrations (among potential voters of all ages) in 2022 occurred in person at an elections office, which underscores the reliance on other registration processes (including other in-person options, like the DMV) that may be rendered inoperable by the SAVE Act.”( Suzuki & Booth, 2025) The analysis of these outcomes only reinforce the dire need for investment into youth development programs focusing on civic engagement lest we lose a generation of change makers and innovators an NIH study in 2023 found that “Civic engagement in adolescence can have positive effects in adulthood as well, both in terms of better emotional regulation and greater sense of empowerment and a higher likelihood of engaging in civic activities as an adult” (Martini et al., 2023) not only are programs like Teen Empowerment activating young people as civic leaders they are creating civically engaged adults the literal life blood of our democracy. But don’t take it from me here’s what some of the youth organizers we work with have to say about being a part of a program like Teen Empowerment “I really enjoy working at Teen Empowerment because of the amount of resources it provides. And it gives me a good feeling to help the community and put on events. I’ve been a Youth Organizer since November 2023 and my favorite event is the Annual Somerville Peace Conference — it makes us work together as a team and create a really dope show to talk about immigration, mental health and violence.” — Delmy Santos, age 17. During a time when mental health and isolation reports among young people are at all times high, civic engagement programs are a source of hope and community for young people who feel often excluded from meaningful ways to impact their communities. The vehicle of ownership and empowerment in adolescent civic engagement drive creative solutions and offer perspectives to the beneficiaries of these programs that helps them navigate through life one program attendee had this to say, “I like making new friends — without TE I Would just be in my house alone; but now I have a space to meet new friends and be paid for it . I was a troubled teen before this; TE helps people like me. The staff are actually people I want to talk to. When I moved here from Providence all I saw at first was that Somerville was super gentrified compared to where I was. But when I came here, I realized there are still a lot of problems in this community. So, working at TE I get to help out and give back. — ZAYDEN Garcia, 18 The benefits to the community are clear by empowering young people to show up civically, we create a strong and consistent engaged public who will for years to come advocate and engage in programs and activities that serve the neighborhood. The only question left to answer is why not invest more resources into programs and activities like these that have a proven return on investment? It's time to accept that the next revolution to take the world by storm is the youth civic engagement movement. We've seen influencers and advocates attract millions of followers and views inspiring the younger generation to claim our role in society and fulfill our civic responsibility. Now it's time for our adult counterparts to acknowledge our talents and potential and invest in the future for all of us. You'll be glad you Civically Engaged us now so you CAN thank US later.

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

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.