Do you know what to expect on November 3rd?
This election season has been incredible. Immigrant and refugee voters and their progressive allies have cast their ballots early in RECORD numbers with a shared goal: bringing our country together according to the will of the people.
Voters across Tennessee triumphed over long lines and barriers caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in order to raise their voice and cast their vote by mail or in person. In fact, more than 2.2 million Tennesseans voted early this year, a 36 percent increase from 2016.
Just about everything has been different in 2020, and these elections are no exception. Here is what you need to know as we head into Election Day and beyond:
It is very likely that we will not have complete election results on November 3rd, and that's OK. Along with record early voting turnout, more people have been able to vote using absentee ballots than in past elections due to the coronavirus pandemic. These ballots have always taken longer to verify and count, and some states do not begin counting absentee ballots until after the polls close on Election Day. Elections officials are also being careful to stay socially distant and safe during the pandemic, so the process of counting our votes may take longer than normal. It’s important that we give elections officials the time they need to make sure all votes are counted to ensure a fair and free election.
If you haven’t already cast your vote, we need YOU to make a plan to do so on Election Day. Find your polling location here: https://www.tirrcvotes.org/gotv. Forward this email to three people and invite them to vote with you on Election Day if they haven’t already cast their vote.
No matter what happens, we will continue organizing and building power in immigrant and refugee communities to turn the tide in Tennessee. Black, indigenous, and people of color will continue to be the perfectors of this democracy. Regardless of the outcome of these elections, there will be more work to do to ensure justice, freedom, and opportunity for ALL.
It's natural to feel on edge right now, especially given the importance of these elections. But one of our most important rights is the right to vote, and our elections officials have a duty to ensure that every eligible vote is counted. Together, we can elect and swear in leaders who will unite our communities and make sure all of us are valued, treated equally, and given opportunities to thrive.
Need a mask to wear to the polls? Get your Immigrants Vote mask today and show your support for our movement while safely casting your ballot!