Did you know that if voters with disabilities participated at the same rate as those without disabilities, we would see an increase of 2 million voters? Imagine the impact their voices could have!
Empowering individuals with disabilities to participate in their communities is an essential part of DP’s mission. We want all voters, especially those with disabilities, to recognize their power: get registered to vote, learn about the issues, and understand that your voice truly matters.
We recognize that there can be many barriers to voting for our community, so we’ve gathered important voting information for you below!
Know Your Rights
Remember, you can seek assistance with the voting registration process. In Colorado, you are eligible to vote if you have a guardian or legal decision-maker!
Disability Law Colorado is the designated Protection and Advocacy (P&A) system for Colorado. They are connected across the country to similar organizations in the National Disability Rights Network. Visit their website to find resources about understanding your rights!
If you believe your rights have been violated, please reach out, and they can assist you in filing a complaint.
Make a Plan
In Colorado, there are different ways that you can vote, so it is important to make a plan. You can register and vote in person until Tuesday, November 5 (Election Day!) until 7 pm.
- In-person Voting Centers: You can visit a polling place in person. Early in-person voting begins on October 21. Keep in mind that it is difficult to know how long you may have to wait in line. To find your polling place, visit the election page for your county or visit GoVoteColorado.gov.
- Electronic Voting: If you have a disability, you may be able to use assistive technology to vote online. Visit Accessible Voting on the Colorado Secretary of State website to learn more.
- Mail-in Ballots: All registered voters in Colorado receive a ballot in the mail and can choose to vote in person at a polling place, return their ballot via mail, or take it to a drop box. If you want to mail your ballot in, it is important to make sure to put at least one stamp on the ballot. Remember, as long as you put one stamp on your ballot, by State and Federal law, the USPS delivers those ballots to the counties, and the counties will cover any overages.
- Ballot Drop Boxes: There are over 350 ballot drop boxes in Colorado! They are located throughout our counties. Some of them even allow you to drive up, so you don’t have to leave your car. Drop boxes are under 24-hour surveillance and are emptied by a bi-partisan team. To find a Dropbox, visit the election page for your county or visit Go Vote Colorado on the Secretary of State website.
Learn the Issues
Many organizations create ballot guides to help voters understand key issues. However, not all of these guides are nonpartisan. While it’s valuable to consider insights from trusted organizations, it’s just as important to think about your own values and beliefs.
Below are some ballot guides and resources for 2024:
- The Arc of Aurora/ Think+ Change
- The Colorado Sun, Colorado Vote Guide
- The Denver Post
- Colorado Public Radio
- League of Women Voters
As an organization, we are nonpartisan and work with members of both political parties to advocate for individuals with disabilities in all stages of life.
To register to vote and learn more about voting in Colorado, visit www.GoVoteColorado.gov. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter (X) to stay updated on important voting information and upcoming activities and events. We look forward to connecting with you!
If you have any questions about voting, please reach out to Kim Tenure at K.Tenure@DPColo.org. Happy voting!