Columbia Non-Profit Highlights Barriers Faced by Voters with Disabilities
COLUMBIA, S.C. — In a heartfelt bid to shine a light on the challenges faced by voters with disabilities, a local non-profit took advantage of Disability Voting Rights Week, which ran from September 9 to 13 this year. This initiative, organized by the American Association of People with Disabilities, emphasizes advocacy and community empowerment for voters with disabilities. It’s all about ensuring that every eligible voter gets their chance to make their voice heard.
Did you know that more than 35 million people with disabilities could cast their vote if they were registered? That’s a significant number! However, organizations like Able SC—a Columbia-area, disability-led non-profit—are bringing attention to the various hurdles that these individuals often encounter during elections.
Voting Privacy: A Basic Right Not Always Assured
One of the key points made by a spokesperson from Able SC is the issue of voting privacy. Many individuals with disabilities find themselves in situations where they are not given a choice in who assists them in the voting process. Instead, they may be placed in public areas, leaving their votes open to scrutiny by those around them. That’s just not acceptable!
People with disabilities absolutely have the right to accommodations and support when it comes to voting. This includes the option to receive assistance with absentee ballots. “You can apply to have the application sent to you. You can ask for it in accessible formats,” said Dori Tempio, senior director of community education at Able SC. If anyone needs assistance or more information, she encourages reaching out to Able South Carolina or Disability Rights South Carolina.
Overcoming Barriers
In speaking about her experiences, Tempio emphasized the numerous barriers that people with disabilities face when trying to vote. “I love voting. I’ve been voting since I was 18 years old, and even when I’ve had challenges each year to voting, I show up, and that’s important,” Tempio expressed. Her tenacity inspires many, and she firmly believes that if she can show up and cast her ballot, everyone should have that opportunity.
Even when physical presence at polling stations is difficult, she noted the importance of options like early voting or absentee ballots that cater to individuals’ unique needs. “As a citizen, I should be able to vote using alternative and accessible formats,” she stated.
Empowering Change Through Knowledge
Tempio, having faced barriers herself, feels it’s essential to spread the knowledge about the rights of voters with disabilities. She stated, “It’s how we make change. It’s how we make choices, and when we’re able to do all of those things, then we’re truly a part of society.” Individuals with disabilities want to be involved and included just like anyone else.
Bringing this issue to the forefront encourages not only awareness but also action. By educating the public—including voters and election workers—they can ensure that everyone has the chance to participate in our democracy free from discrimination or undue hardship.
As the conversation around election accessibility continues, advocates like Tempio and organizations like Able SC play a critical role in pushing for change. Their efforts empower voters with disabilities and remind us all that regardless of obstacles, everyone deserves the right to make their voice heard.
This week serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenges and the collective efforts required to ensure that every citizen can exercise their right to vote. Because, at the end of the day, voting is not just a right—it’s a privilege that should be available to all.
