AIR DATE OCTOBER 19, 2023
Title: Voting and Civic Participation Part 1
In this two-episode series, Emily reveals the many elements necessary for being an informed and active citizen. In part 1, learn about your rights as a voter.
Guests
League of Women Voters of Orange County, Co-President – Barbara Lanning
Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, Executive Director – Desmond Meade
The Power of Informed Voting and Restoring Rights: Insights from Our Guests
In recent episodes of “Emily Tells All,” I had the privilege of hosting two remarkable guests who brought to light crucial aspects of our democracy: informed voting and the restoration of voting rights. Their insights not only educate but also inspire action. Here’s what we learned.
Barbara Lanning from the League of Women Voters
Barbara Lanning, the co-president of the League of Women Voters in Orange County, shared the league’s steadfast commitment to non-partisan voter empowerment. “We are a non-partisan, grassroots organization devoted to empowering voters and defending democracy,” Barbara stated, emphasizing the league’s multifaceted approach, including voter registration, advocacy, and, when necessary, litigation.
The league’s efforts in supporting informed and fair voting are noteworthy. Barbara highlighted the importance of their educational programs and the Vote411.org platform, which offers personalized candidate information. “What you see are the answers from the candidates, and there are a series of questions that you can read, and make your decisions based on the answers that you see there,” she explained. This tool is invaluable for voters seeking to make informed decisions.
Barbara also touched on the significance of maintaining a non-partisan role: “If you are going to empower voters, you need to come at it from a position of non-partisanship. We strictly want the facts and for the voters to have the most facts and also, you know, to be able to judge for themselves.” This approach ensures fairness and objectivity in the voting process.
Desmond Meade from the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition
In another enlightening conversation, Desmond Meade, representing the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition (FRRC), discussed the vital work of restoring voting rights to those with past felony convictions. Desmond’s story is both personal and impactful. “I’m a returning citizen myself,” he shared, highlighting the broader societal implications of disenfranchisement.
Desmond elaborated on the various, often minor, offenses that can lead to a lifetime of disenfranchisement in Florida. “Driving with a suspended license, catching a lobster when the tail is too short, trespassing on a construction site…if you’re convicted of it, you lose the right to vote for the rest of your life,” he explained, emphasizing the disproportionate impact of these laws.
The journey of Amendment 4, which Desmond and his organization championed, is a testament to the power of citizen initiatives in democracy. “We led the efforts in 2018 to pass Amendment 4, which restored voting rights to 1.4 million people with a former felony conviction,” Desmond stated, showcasing a significant achievement in the fight for voting rights.
Yet, the journey doesn’t end there. Post-Amendment 4, new challenges arose, such as the requirement to clear legal financial obligations before regaining the right to vote. Desmond and his team are tirelessly working to navigate these obstacles, providing aid to those in need.
Call to Action: Get Involved and Make a Difference
The conversations with Barbara and Desmond underscore the importance of informed voting and the ongoing struggle for equitable voting rights. If these issues resonate with you, I encourage you to get involved. Whether it’s volunteering with the League of Women Voters, contributing to the FRRC’s efforts, or simply staying informed and voting, your participation matters. Together, we can ensure a more equitable and informed democratic process. Join us in this crucial endeavor.
