Glass Ballot Box circa 1884, Smithsonian Institute, public domain photo

As we near the midterm elections in the US, it is becoming clearer and clearer that voter suppression is alive and well in 2018. When voting at the polls, make sure you know your rights.

Acme voting machine circa 1880, Smithsonian Institute, public domain photo

Here are some important takeaways from a CNN online article found here:

If you are told you cannot vote

• ask poll workers to check surrounding systems for your name.

• ask to sign an affidavit  swearing your eligibility.

• ask for a provisional ballot and follow up later to make sure it’s counted.

• if you are denied or feel intimidated, report the incident to any poll workers present, AND

• report the incident to local officials or the Department of Justice Voting Rights hotline*

Metal ballot box circa 1936, Smithsonian Institute, public domain photo

Phone Numbers that may be useful:

Election Protection Hotline: 1-866-OUR-VOTE
Election Hotline (en español): 1-888-VE-Y-VOTA 
*US Department of Justice Voting Rights Hotline: 1-800-253-3931

The information above is taken from the CNN article “Here’s what to do if you’re turned away at the polls.“