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Empowering Resident Voters Through Inclusive Practices

By October 15, 2024October 18th, 2024No Comments

Empowering Resident Voters Through Inclusive Practices
Uniting to Support Older Adults in the Voting Process

In a remarkable display of civic engagement, many of our elderly Residents, aided by walkers, wheelchairs, and with the caring support of the Little Sisters and dedicated staff, gathered in our Café to participate in the democratic process by completing and casting their mail-in ballots.

This collective effort underscores our commitment to ensuring that the voices of the Residents are heard, regardless of the obstacles that may impede their ability to vote.

Recognizing the unique needs of older adults who may find it challenging to reach a polling place, five officials from the District of Columbia Board of Elections visited our Home. They set up in our Café to help Residents as they completed their mail-in ballots. These trained professionals are well-versed in aiding older voters who might need help with reading or marking their ballots, as well as ensuring that finished ballots are securely placed in the ‘Official Drop Box.’ Karla D. Garcia, a Public Affairs Specialist for D.C.’s Board of Elections, noted, “Ballots were distributed in two waves. We’ll return in a couple of weeks to assist anyone else requiring help with reading or marking their ballots!”

Moreover, officials made visits to the rooms of Residents unable to come to the Café, ensuring they received the necessary support as well.

“The dedication of the election officials is truly commendable-they visit every nursing home,” remarked Ramona Hatton, our social service assistant, acknowledging their unwavering commitment.

The collaboration between the Little Sisters of the Poor and the District of Columbia Board of Elections exemplifies a considerate and inclusive strategy, ensuring our elderly Residents can actively participate in the democratic process. By bringing voting directly to our community, we are dismantling barriers that might otherwise prevent some Residents from casting their votes.

“Our Residents,” Ramona commented, “including those who are centenarians, greatly appreciate the additional efforts to make this process accessible and stress-free.”

Sr. Dorothy and Ramona have been instrumental in ensuring that all Residents are informed about the election, understood the mail-in voting processes, and are aware of the special accommodations available to them. Their initiatives, combined with the diligent work of our activities team-Francine Whitely, activities director and Joyce Miles, activities assistant-guaranteed that every Resident wishing to vote had the chance to do so.

Our Resident community brings a wealth of voting experience, with many having participated in more than 20 presidential elections throughout their lifetimes. Several reminisce about casting their first ballots for iconic figures like Franklin D. Roosevelt, while others cherish the memory of voting for John F. Kennedy in 1960.

Voting rights for senior citizens are safeguarded by various federal laws, ensuring that the electoral process is accessible and inclusive.

Thank you to everyone involved in making the event successful and to our Residents for their steadfast dedication to participating in the democratic process.

Let’s continue to ensure that every voice is heard, every vote is counted, and every citizen is empowered to influence our collective future.

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