#AdvocacyMatters: Equal Participants?

February 17, 2023 / #AdvocacyMatters

Equity - true equity - for people with disabilities will only be possible when they are fully included and equal participants in elections and policy. From inclusion in discussions and legislation that will ultimately impact their daily lives to the ability to cast a ballot, the campaign for full and equitable access to systems of policy and election is at the core of our work.

In last year’s lame duck legislative session, the Ohio General Assembly passed House Bill 458. This bill, which was signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine, makes radical changes to Ohio’s voting laws. This new law, among other things, now requires a voter to have a photo ID to vote in person, shortens the window for early voting, limits curbside voting, and restricts the number of absentee voting ballot drop boxes to one per county.

Prior to House Bill 458, Ohio’s election were safe, secure, and moving towards greater accessibility. In the wake of these new changes, voters in Ohio – especially those in already-marginalized communities – face fewer options and greater barriers in casting their ballots.

Over the coming weeks, we are committed to sharing information and resources to ensure that every Ohioan who wants to vote – regardless of race, location, or disability – is able to cast their ballot. Please join us in amplifying this important information to show that in the face of disenfranchisement and oppression, #AdvocacyMatters most.