2020 is upon us, and it is going to be an eventful year… we will celebrate the 100th anniversary of women getting the right to vote, as well as perhaps the most important election in our lifetime where issues that matter the most to many of us are at risk. Primary elections are coming up March 3rd. Now’s the time to begin planning at the branch level how to address these activities in our communities. Women who vote can influence the outcome of an election!
What opportunities should be considered?
Voter Registration. AAUW California is well-positioned to undertake voter registration, especially with our college/university relationships. Millennial women are an important target group. Research shows that a lack of information on the candidates and a lack of policy debates on issues of importance are the main reasons some millennial women don’t participate in the election process, and may not even register to vote. Get involved by organizing a voter registration drive in your community or on your local college campus. Don’t forget: a successful voter registration drive must be a compliant one! Be sure to review the AAUW Guide to GOTV (Get Out the Vote) Dos and Don’ts on the national website.
Voter Education. AAUW aims to increase women’s political influence and educate voters on issues that are important to women and girls. These targeted efforts help increase the number of women voting. Consider sponsoring nonpartisan issue forums, perhaps collaborating with another organization such as the League of Women Voters. Perhaps you have a vacancy to be filled in the primary election, so consider a meet-the-candidate event or debate, and invite all candidates to give their positions on AAUW’s key issues:
- Equal Pay for Equal Work.
- Investing in Education.
- Reducing Student Debt.
- Strengthening Social Security. Implementing Paid Leave.
And certainly, consider doing this before the November election.
This is just a start…but early planning will ensure greater success! Don’t hesitate to ask our AAUW California Public Policy Team for assistance at publicpolicy@aauw-ca.org!
