It’s a new year with the same energy. In 2021, Civic Nebraska continues to see strong interest from Nebraskans of all backgrounds about how they can volunteer their time, talent, and treasure to the fight for voting rights.
Notably, the broad civic spirit that was so evident in 2020 has begun to turn its focus toward the 2021 municipal elections in Nebraska’s two largest cities – both Lincoln and Omaha hold important citywide votes in April and May. More urgently, nearly 30 voting- and election-related bills and resolutions were introduced in the Nebraska Legislature in January. Some would make it easier for Nebraskans to vote; others, unfortunately, would create new, harmful barriers to the ballot. You can read a summary of the most important bills and our general position on them here.Getting involved in the fight for voting rights is one of the most important actions Nebraskans who support democracy can take up right now. Start by joining us at 6 pm Feb. 11 on Zoom as Civic Nebraska’s John Cartier and Brad Christian-Sallis present Civic Nebraska’s 2021 Voting Rights Advocacy Training. Members of our Voting Rights Initiatives team will discuss the legislative priorities for the year and ways you can engage at the statehouse to protect and promote access to the ballot for all eligible Nebraskans.
Voting is our most cherished democratic right. Without it, there is no prospect for change, no method to hold our leaders accountable, no real way for our values and vision to be represented in our institutions. This most basic right is never guaranteed – so it must be championed, defended, and exercised to the fullest.
We’re looking forward to the discussion on Feb. 11. See you soon.
