Did you know that the last day to register to vote is October 22? Or, that you don’t have to have an I.D. in order to cast your vote?

It’s very important that you know your voting rights before you go to the polls on November 6, because unfortunately, not everyone is aware of them.

It’s been said before, but this election is one of the most important in our history as a community and an environmental justice organization. EHC would like you to go to the polls feeling excited that you’re doing your part as a citizen – and comfortable knowing the rights you have as a voter. EHC is working hard to make sure that everyone who can vote does vote, because our communities are key to supporting environmental justice in San Diego.

For instance, you may not know what to do if you show up to your polling place and find that you’re not on the voter list. What are your options?

• First, ask the poll worker to check again. There are a lot of names on that list, so a quick double check is always helpful.
• Secondly, call the voter registrar to make sure that this is the correct polling location for you. This just takes a few minutes by calling 1-800-345-VOTE (8683).
• Finally, ask for a “provisional” ballot. This allows you to vote at any location, so long as you’re a registered voter.
  

Additionally, here are a few key dates you should know about before the election:

• October 22, 2012 at midnight is the last opportunity to register to vote in the November 6 election. If you haven’t registered or don’t know if you’re registered, you can do this online at www.sdvote.com.
  
• October 30, 2012 is the last day to request a vote-by-mail ballot, which allows you to send in your ballot through mail, if you’d rather not go to the polls.
• November 6, 2012 is election day. The polls are open from 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. You can find your polling place at www.sdvote.com.

Check out the ACLU of San Diego’s Voter Rights Guide to follow simple instructions to help you make a difference on November 6 or download the Voter Rights Postcard.

For more in-depth information, visit the ACLU of California’s Voter Rights page.