You may not know this, but Georgia is among several states that automatically revoke the voting rights of those convicted of felonies while they're incarcerated or serving out their probation or parole. But here’s the key: once you’ve completed your time, your right to vote comes back to you. It’s not automatic for everyone to know this, which is where organizations like the League of Women Voters of Coastal Georgia come in.
The League’s Mission to Empower Voters
The League of Women Voters of Coastal Georgia is stepping up, especially with Election Day right around the corner, to make sure that everyone, no matter their past, is aware of their rights. Chassidy Malloy, President of the League, emphasized, "It’s really important to reach out to all citizens, from every background and walk of life, to ensure that despite your circumstances, you might be eligible to vote."
A lot of times, people think that if they’ve been convicted of a felony, that’s it for them when it comes to voting. But that’s far from the truth in Georgia. If your time is done, your voice can still be heard. The League is making sure they empower those who are eligible to vote, particularly individuals who may have been disenfranchised by past felony convictions.
One of the surprising realities is that in 2020, it’s estimated that around a quarter of a million Georgians couldn’t vote simply because they didn’t realize they were eligible. Think about that: 250,000 people could have had a say in one of the most important elections of their lifetime, but misinformation and lack of awareness held them back. It’s not just about following the rules; it’s about making sure everyone knows their rights.
Are You Eligible? Here's How to Check
If you’re someone who’s unsure about your eligibility, the first and most crucial step is to check your voter registration status. It’s easy, and it’s all online at Georgia’s My Voter Page. This is your go-to resource to confirm whether you're registered and, if not, take the necessary steps to get registered.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes you eligible to vote in Georgia if you’ve had a run-in with the law:
- You’re not currently serving a sentence for a felony conviction.
- You’ve completed your sentence, including any parole or probation.
- You’re awaiting trial. (If you haven’t been convicted, you haven’t lost your right to vote!)
- You’re on probation for misdemeanor charges or are incarcerated for misdemeanor offenses.
It’s that simple. If you meet any of the above criteria, you’ve got the green light to hit the polls this November. The League of Women Voters, with its mission to inform and empower voters, wants to ensure that everyone who can vote, does vote.
Having a Voice in Your Community
"This is your chance to have a voice in your community," said Malloy. And she’s right—voting isn’t just about choosing a president or governor. It’s about deciding who represents you at every level, from your local school board to the people making decisions about criminal justice reform. Every vote counts, and it’s your opportunity to shape the policies that directly affect your life.
There’s a certain level of empowerment that comes with knowing you have a say in who represents you, especially after going through the justice system. For many, it’s a way to reintegrate into society and assert their presence as active members of the community. Voting is a powerful tool, and it’s a right that everyone who’s eligible should exercise.
Don’t Know Where to Start? The League’s Got Your Back
If you’re still unsure about your eligibility or have questions about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out. The League of Women Voters of Coastal Georgia is there to help. Whether you’re confused about your voter registration status, need assistance navigating the system, or just want to make sure you’re all set for Election Day, they’ve got you covered. Give them a call at 912-328-3953, or check out their website for more resources.
Their work goes beyond just answering questions. They’re active in spreading awareness about voter rights and helping individuals take the necessary steps to register or re-register after completing a sentence. For disenfranchised voters, this kind of support can make all the difference.
Why This Matters
It’s not just about giving people the right to vote; it’s about ensuring they understand their rights. There’s often a gap in communication for those who’ve been justice-impacted. Many are under the impression that once they’ve been convicted of a felony, that’s the end of their voting days. But in Georgia, that’s not the case at all.
Once you’ve paid your debt to society, you’re no longer disenfranchised. Your voice can be just as loud and impactful as anyone else’s. The system allows for redemption and re-entry into the democratic process, but it requires that individuals know their rights and take action to exercise them.
Takeaway Points
- Check your voter registration status on Georgia's My Voter Page if you're unsure whether you’re eligible to vote.
- You can vote if you’ve completed your felony sentence and aren’t currently serving it.
- Misdemeanor convictions don’t disqualify you from voting, and neither does awaiting trial.
- The League of Women Voters of Coastal Georgia is a valuable resource for answering any voting-related questions and helping people through the process.
It’s crucial to spread the word, especially as we get closer to Election Day. Voter disenfranchisement is a real issue, but it doesn’t have to be if we inform people of their rights and empower them to take part in the democratic process. This November, let’s make sure every eligible voice is heard.
For more information, or if you have any doubts, don't hesitate to call the League of Women Voters of Coastal Georgia. They’re just one phone call away at 912-328-3953, ready to assist you in making sure your vote counts.
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