Ever since I gained the right to do so, I have been an active voter. From national to local elections, I research candidates and vote every single year. I help my students navigate how to register and how to determine if a candidate aligns with their values. I never say who to vote for, but nurture the habit of casting ballots based on facts.
I can get to the polls easily because of the privileges I carry: internet access, a car, an ID, and time to wait in line on a day off. When Erica described her plan for The Shrinking Ballot, I agreed to help without hesitation. Having a truly representative democracy depends on a fair and accessible voting system, and this month Texas must address if voter restrictions will become normalized.