A few weeks ago, I started working at the Democratic Party of Georgia as our first Voter Expansion Director. My mission is to build a
permanent infrastructure that is focused on expanding and protecting the vote of all Georgians—regardless of party.
For us, expanding voter participation isn't some gimmick—it's a value we hold. We believe that our government is stronger and works better when more voices are heard.
Unfortunately—
as evidenced by Tuesday's events—not everyone shares this value.
Just days ago, we got the great news that DeKalb County would offer its voters the option—for the first time in our state's history—to vote on a Sunday during the early voting period. DeKalb leaders have realized that working Georgians often do not have the flexibility to go to the polls on Election Day or regular early voting days. We applaud all counties and their leaders who take into consideration the needs of their voters by expanding voting access. We are disappointed to hear the remarks made by a Republican state senator.
In reaction to the news that his county would participate in Sunday voting, Sen. Fran Millar said "Now we are to have Sunday voting at South DeKalb Mall just prior to the election. Per Jim Galloway of the AJC
, this location is dominated by African American shoppers and it is near several large African American mega churches such as New Birth Missionary Baptist. Galloway also points out the Democratic Party thinks this is a wonderful idea – what a surprise…
I have spoken with Representative Jacobs and we will try to eliminate this election law loophole in January."
But the insults didn't end there. Later in the day, Millar said "…
I would prefer more educated voters than a greater increase in the number of voters…"
Everything that Sen. Millar said is wrong. Bringing more Georgians into the process and allowing them to have a seat at the table is
not a loophole—it's an invitation for citizens to participate in their government and get involved in the democratic process.
Sen. Millar did not just insult DeKalb voters—he insulted every Georgian who shares the belief that our government is at its best when all voters are able and encouraged to participate in democracy.
Georgia Republicans are so afraid of their futures and so out of touch that they believe their best path to victory is to have fewer voices heard.
Georgia Democrats believe in expanding voting access—not restricting it.
That's why I'm challenging you to do three things:
1) Make a plan to vote. Decide if you will take advantage of early voting (which I highly encourage you to do) or if you'll be voting on Election Day. If you do wait until Election Day to vote, make a plan for the exact time you'll head to the polls.
2) If you have any questions about your polling location, early voting location, or the process for absentee voting, visit
MVP.SOS.GA.GOV.
3)
Encourage others to register to vote and make their own plan to vote. This means your mom and dad, your friends, your neighbors, fellow PTA members, your mail carrier, and even the folks you play Bingo with on Thursday night.
To register to vote, go to
MYGAVOTE.COM. Then:
1) Fill out the online form.
2) Print the form and mail it to the address given. You can also take this form to your county board of elections office.
It's as easy as that.
THE LAST DAY YOU CAN REGISTER TO VOTE IS OCTOBER 6th.
Over the next fifty-four days, if I see you, I will ask you one question—"What is your plan to vote?"
So, make your plan to vote today—then challenge others to do the same.
Sincerely,
Junia Telamour
Voter Expansion Director
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