Policy and Governance

What is the Act of Voting?

Voting is the process by which individuals participate in democracy by selecting leaders, policies, and shaping the future of their communities. It is a fundamental right and responsibility that gives people a voice in local, state, and federal government decisions. Voting affects everyone, regardless of gender, age, race, ability, or background. The policies decided through elections shape education, healthcare, infrastructure, and countless other aspects of daily life. By voting, individuals ensure their needs and values are represented in leadership and legislation.

Why is it Important to Vote?

Voting is important because it determines who represents us and what laws are enacted. When people don’t vote, they allow others to make decisions on their behalf, potentially leading to policies that don’t reflect their needs. Historically, many groups, such as women, people of color, and individuals with disabilities, had to fight for their right to vote. Honoring that struggle by participating in elections ensures that everyone's voice is heard.

A great example of voter advocacy comes from Good Mythical Morning (GMM), a daily YouTube show with over 19 million subscribers. Every election period, they promote a website they created called Vote Like a Beast, which helps people easily check their voter registration status, register to vote, and even take a short quiz to see which candidates align with their values. I appreciate tools like this because they simplify the voting process, making it more accessible and less intimidating. Many similar websites exist, reinforcing the idea that voting should be easy and accessible to everyone.

Additionally, many people may not realize that they need to update their voter registration when they change their name, move to a new address, or change their political affiliation. I recently had to re-register to vote because I changed my last name. It was a simple process, but it’s something that can be easily overlooked. Spreading awareness about these small but crucial details helps ensure that more people can vote without issues on Election Day.

What Can You Do to Extend Suffrage?

There are several ways to help others gain access to voting, including:

• Encouraging people to register and share resources (e.g., vote.utah.gov and votelikeabeast.com).

• Advocating for policies that protect and expand voting rights, such as mail-in ballots and early voting.

• Assisting individuals with disabilities by helping them understand their voting options.

• Spreading awareness about elections through social media and conversations with friends and family.

What is the name of the community partner?
Sego Lily Center for the Abused Deaf (SLCAD)

How did you research them?
I looked them up online and spent time on their official website. I read about their mission, the services they offer, and how they help people in the Deaf community. I also checked out a few articles to get a better understanding of what they do and how they make an impact.

What is the organization’s mission?
Sego Lily’s mission is to create a safe and empowering space for people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Deaf-Blind. They do this through culturally accessible services, advocacy, and education. Their focus is on safety, empowerment, and helping the community feel supported.

What societal issues are they providing resources to?
They support people who are experiencing abuse or domestic violence, specifically within the Deaf community. A lot of mainstream resources aren't always accessible for Deaf survivors, so Sego Lily fills in those gaps. They offer things like crisis support, education, and help navigating the systems that can be really hard to access without the right support.

The civic engagement concept: Policy and Governance—how is this approach explored by the community organization?
Sego Lily plays a role in policy and governance by pushing for more accessible and fair services for Deaf people, especially survivors of abuse. They help raise awareness and make sure systems like law enforcement, shelters, and hospitals understand the needs of the Deaf community. They also help influence policies that promote equal access and safety. Since they’re a community-led group, they really focus on making sure the people they serve are heard and represented.

Do you see yourself doing community involvement with this organization? Why or why not?
Yes, I definitely could see myself working with Sego Lily in the future. I’m studying ASL and Interpreting, and I really care about being involved in the Deaf community—especially in places where support is so needed. I love that they focus on empowerment and safety, and it feels like the kind of work that would be really meaningful to be part of.