Texas Votes While the Rest of America Suppresses

The 2024 election is on the horizon, and Texans are gearing up to exercise their democratic right on Nov. 5. But let's not forget the dark history of voter suppression in this country, especially for communities of color and women. Despite the Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments granting citizenship and voting rights, African Americans faced institutional barriers until the 1965 Voting Rights Act. And it's gut-wrenching to think that women, our mothers and grandmothers, were denied a voice for decades, only gaining the right to vote in 1920.

Disabling the Disabled

While we've seen some progress, we must shine a light on the ongoing challenges faced by people with disabilities, who are often met with physical barriers to voting. It's 2023, and all qualifying Texans, including those with disabilities, deserve equal access to vote for their leaders. Texas took a step forward in 1999 by becoming the first state to mandate that all new voting systems be accessible to the physically disabled.

HAVA a Little, Help a Lot

The Help America Vote Act (HAVA), introduced in 2002, aims to improve voting systems and access nationwide. It establishes the Election Assistance Commission, ensuring mandatory minimum standards for states to follow—a necessary step towards inclusivity. HAVA mandates provisional voting, improved voting information, upgraded equipment, centralized voter registration, and identification procedures.

Disability Justice: Know Your Rights

Federal laws like HAVA and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protect the voting rights of citizens with disabilities. They have the right to vote privately and independently at accessible polling places with functional machines. These laws also allow for assistance from poll workers or a companion of their choice, free from employer or union influence. Interpreters are available for non-English speakers or those using sign language upon request.

Accessible Infrastructure

Poll stations are required to have wheelchair-accessible booths, wide entrances, handrails, and equipment for the visually impaired. Texans with disabilities can also take advantage of early voting and voting by mail, with applications received at least 11 days before the election. Curbside voting is another inclusive feature, offering reserved parking and assistance from election officers.

Let's ensure every Texan can have their say.

Links:

• First U.S. Presidential Election, 1789
• 1965 Voting Rights Act
• Voter Suppression Timeline, CNN
• [Nineteenth Amendment](https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/19th- amendment)
• Help America Vote Act (HAVA)
• Voting Rights for Citizens with Disabilities
• In-Person Early Voting, Texas
• Voting by Mail, Texas
• Curbside Voting, Texas
• Voting in Texas with a Disability