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Thanks for wanting to be more involved to protect the queer kid(s) in your life.
Previous week’s emails can be found here:
https://www.rainbowparentsofne.org/blog
Early Voting!
Let’s talk about early voting and getting young people registered! In our first weekly action email, we went over registering and checking registration. Go here if you need a refresher on those steps. Also, keep in mind that this information is all general state information, please check your county election commission for specific details. As people who care for and about queer youth, we can provide guidance to make sure they know how to exercise their right to vote.
Age and ID Rules
17-year-olds who will turn 18 by November 5, 2024, can register now to vote in the November election–no need to wait until their 18th birthday! This would be a great back to school activity to encourage the teens in your life to do and to post on social media about. If Gen Z becomes the powerful voting force we know they can be, our elected officials will not be able to keep introducing anti-LGBTQ legislation and still keep their jobs.
Nebraska’s laws now require an ID to vote. Anyone who doesn’t have a drivers’ license can get a free state ID for voting purposes, but should start that process as soon as possible to make sure it is in hand in time for the election. Check out the ID rules here, and go to your county DMV’s website to get specifics. Also, if you have had a legal name change, please update your ID and/or registration now so they match!
Why Request an Early Voting Ballot?
Nebraska registered voters who will not be living at their permanent address on election day (like college students!) should fill out a request for an early voting ballot. Early voting is also helpful for transgender or nonbinary people whose appearance might not match their name or picture on their legal ID (like a person who has socially transitioned, but has not gone through the legal name change process). Early voting is a way to avoid being questioned or feeling embarrassed or unsafe saying their deadname out loud. Finally, early voting is a great option for anyone who might find it difficult to get to the polls on election day. Any of us could get sick, have an emergency, or even just have a busy day at school or work. Requesting an early ballot now is a great safeguard.
How to Request an Early Voting Ballot
Those who have already registered may have received a card that looks something like this, and can fill that out and mail it back today to have an early voting ballot sent to their home or school address. This is just an example, not all counties will send out cards, or they may look a bit different.
