Tag: Voter Registration Day

Know Your Voting Rights: Accessible Voting and Where to Get Help

Voters with disabilities have the right to participate in elections privately and independently. Accessibility can include physical access to voting locations, accessible voting equipment, election information in alternative formats and assistance when needed.

Knowing where to turn when you have a question or encounter a barrier can make an important difference.

Disability Rights California Voting Hotline

Disability Rights California provides a Voting Hotline at 1-888-569-7955 for voters with disabilities who have questions about their voting rights, accessible voting options or disability-related barriers.

The hotline is available year-round. Disability Rights California can provide information about voting rights and help address problems involving accessibility or disability discrimination.

Voting Hotline: 1-888-569-7955

TTY: 1-800-719-5798

California’s Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee Meets September 23

California’s Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee (VAAC) advises the Secretary of State on ways to improve access to voting and election materials and help ensure voters with disabilities can vote independently and privately.

The committee works on issues including:

      • Accessibility of election materials and websites
      • Polling place accessibility
      • Accessible voting systems
      • Plain-language and alternative-format materials
      • Poll worker training
      • Outreach to voters with disabilities

The next statewide VAAC meeting will take place:

Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at 1:30 p.m.  |  Click HERE to learn more

Members of the public can learn more about the committee, review meeting information and find ways to participate through the California Secretary of State’s Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee webpage.

Los Angeles Radio Reading Service

For people who are blind or print-impaired, the Los Angeles Radio Reading Service (LARRS) provides access to newspapers, magazines, community information and election information through its radio and online reading service.

LARRS can be reached at 818-345-2874, and additional information is available through the Los Angeles Radio Reading Service website.

Make Your Voice Heard

The deadline to register to vote for California’s November 3 General Election is October 19, 2026. The disability community represents a powerful and important voice in California’s democracy. When people with disabilities, their families, caregivers and allies participate in elections, they help ensure that the experiences and priorities of the disability community are part of the decisions shaping our state. Your voice matters. Your vote matters. Make sure you are registered and ready to vote. Register or check registration status at registertovote.ca.gov

Get Ready to Vote During Disability Voting Rights Week

Disability Voting Rights Week takes place September 14–18, followed by National Voter Registration Day on September 15. Together, these nonpartisan initiatives offer an important opportunity to help people with disabilities register, prepare and exercise their right to vote.

Led by the American Association of People with Disabilities and its REV UP campaign, Disability Voting Rights Week works to build the power of the disability vote through education, community engagement and action. REV UP stands for “Register, Educate, Vote, Use your Power.” This year’s theme, “Be an Accessible Democracy Defender,” reminds us that everyone has a role in making voting accessible.

Voting decisions affect schools, health care, community services, employment, housing, civil rights and many other issues that shape the daily lives of people with disabilities and their families. Yet voters with disabilities continue to face barriers to obtaining information, accessing polling places and receiving the assistance or accommodations they need.

During Disability Voting Rights Week, you can:

      • Register to vote or confirm that your registration information is current.
      • Learn what will appear on your ballot.
      • Make a voting plan, including when, where and how you will vote.
      • Learn about your voting rights and available accommodations.
      • Help a family member, friend or community member find accessible voting information.
      • Share trusted, nonpartisan voting resources with your network.

California residents can register, preregister or check their voter registration through the California Secretary of State’s voter registration website.

DISABILITY VOTING RESOURCES

The following resources can help voters, families, advocates and organizations prepare for the election:

UPCOMING VOTER EDUCATION WEBINARS

Voter EVE Education and Voter Engagement

Tuesday, September 15 at 1:00 p.m. (PST) / 4:00 p.m. (EST)

This interactive webinar will help voters feel confident and prepared, understand available supports and learn about voting rights and assistance. The webinar is hosted by the National Coalition on Accessible Voting, of which The Arc is a member.

Register for “Voter EVE Education” Webinar

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Understanding Your Ballot and Voting With Confidence

Thursday, September 17 at 9:00 a.m. (PST) / Noon (EST)

Led by people with disabilities, this webinar will cover how to understand your ballot, research candidates and ballot questions, and use artificial intelligence responsibly when learning about issues. It is co-hosted by The Arc, NEXT for AUTISM and First Place Global’s Vote the Spectrum.

Register for “Understanding Your Ballot and Voting With Confidence” Webinar

These resources can be used throughout the election season. Please share them with your family, friends and community so every eligible voter has the information and support needed to participate.RE

Celebrate National Voter Registration Day September 17 with Disability Vote California

National Voter Registration Day is September 17! At Disability Vote California, we’re excited to celebrate this important day and remind our community that every vote matters—especially in the disability community. Voting is a powerful tool for creating change and advocating for the policies that directly impact our lives. Yet, many people with disabilities face barriers that prevent them from registering to vote or casting their ballots. This National Voter Registration Day, we’re here to break down those barriers and empower everyone in the disability community across California to register, vote, and make their voices heard.

WHY VOTING MATTERS TO THE DISABILITY COMMUNITY:

People with disabilities make up a significant portion of the population, but voter turnout among us has historically been lower than the general population. Voting gives us the opportunity to advocate for laws and policies that improve accessibility, expand healthcare, increase employment opportunities, and protect our rights. When we don’t vote, our voices aren’t fully represented, and that means decision-makers may overlook the issues that affect us the most.

That’s why this National Voter Registration Day, we’re calling on the entire disability community in California to get involved, register, and vote. Together, we can make sure that the policies and leaders we support reflect our values and priorities.

STEPS TO REGISTER TO VOTE:

Registering to vote is easier than ever. Here’s how you can get started today:

  1. Visit DisabilityVoteCA.org: We’ve made it simple for you to access voter registration resources on our website. You’ll find information on how to register, check your voter registration status, and make sure you’re all set to vote in upcoming elections.
  2. Register Online: You can register to vote online at California’s voter registration website. It’s quick, accessible, and can be completed from the comfort of your home.
  3. Mail-In Registration: If you prefer to register by mail, you can request a voter registration form to be sent to you. Fill it out and send it back—no need to leave your house!
  4. Accessible Voting Options: California offers accessible voting options for people with disabilities, including vote-by-mail, curbside voting, and accessible voting machines at polling places. Check with your local county election office to learn more about your options.

GET INVOLVED TODAY!

Let’s make National Voter Registration Day a turning point for voter engagement in the disability community. Here’s how you can take action today:

  • Register to Vote: If you’re not already registered, make it a priority today!
  • Check Your Status: Already registered? Double-check your voter registration status to make sure your information is up to date.
  • Help Others: Spread the word, share resources, and encourage others in your community to register.
  • Stay Informed: Visit DisabilityVoteCA.org for the latest information on accessible voting options and resources to make sure you’re prepared to cast your ballot.

Let’s celebrate National Voter Registration Day by ensuring that every eligible voter in the disability community is registered and ready to make a difference. Your vote is your voice—let’s use it to create a more inclusive and accessible future for all.

Get registered today, and together, let’s make our voices heard!

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