This week is Disability Voting Rights Week (September 9-15, 2024), and it’s all about making sure everyone, especially people with disabilities and chronic diseases, has the chance to vote. Organized by the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) and the REV UP campaign, this week focuses on raising awareness and breaking down barriers so that everyone can make their voice heard.
For many people living with chronic diseases, voting isn’t always easy. You might have to deal with symptoms, transportation issues, or other challenges that make it harder to vote. But here’s something important to remember, you’re not alone! This year, for Chronic Disease Month, we commissioned a nationwide survey of more than 1,000 people with chronic diseases. The findings revealed that 18% of people say their disease makes voting harder for them to vote—that’s 25 million Americans.
At the Chronic Disease Coalition, we believe your voice matters. When you vote, you can help shape policies that affect your health, like the cost of medication and access to healthcare. Your vote can make a real difference!
How You Can Get Involved:
1. Register to Vote: Make sure you’re ready to vote! You can easily register or check your voter status by visiting the AAPD’s voter information page here.
2. Know Your Rights: People with chronic illnesses or disabilities can get help with voting, like voting by mail or getting assistance at the polls. Make sure you know what options are available to you!
3. Spread the Word: Talk about why voting is important. Share your story on social media, and use hashtags like #DisabilityVote and #REVUP to help others learn more.
4. Plan Your Vote: Be prepared! Use this helpful My Plan to Vote Checklist to make sure you know what to do, from registering to voting in person or by mail.
Why Voting Is Important
Voting isn’t just about choosing leaders—it’s about making sure your voice is heard on the issues that matter most. In our nationwide poll, 29% of people said they have had to choose between paying for medical treatment and other essentials, like rent or food. That’s why it’s so important to vote for policies that can help make healthcare more affordable and accessible for everyone.
By voting, you’re helping create a future that supports people with chronic diseases. Whether it’s making medications more affordable or improving healthcare, your vote has the power to make a real impact.
What’s Next?
Disability Voting Rights Week is about more than just voting—it’s about making sure everyone can participate. We’re working to make sure that patients with chronic diseases have a say in the decisions that affect them. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that everyone’s voice is heard!