Access the Ballot is a Carnegie Young Leaders initiative led by highschool students. It is aimed at increasing voter registration and turnout among young people ages 18–25 with physical, visual, and intellectual disabilities in Philadelphia. When young adults with disabilities vote, they increase their political influence in policy decisions that affect their communities. Disability rights should be at the forefront of political discussions, and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to vote is essential to achieving full representation.
Contact us if you are interested in having us host an accessible
voter registration drive or civic engagement presentation at your school or program. We are also always looking for new partners to collaborate with on projects and events. If your organization shares our values and mission, let’s work together to make a positive impact in our community.
The right to vote is a hard-won triumph, never to be taken for granted. We stand on the shoulders of those who fought tirelessly to guarantee every American a voice at the ballot box. We can never waver in our commitment to making our democracy fully accessible, inclusive, and seamless for all Americans.
Landmark legislation includes Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (1973) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990), which prohibited discrimination in employment, transportation, and public life. Olmstead v. L.C. (1999) and continued advocacy have pushed toward integration & equal access, but much work remains.
Reach out to us if you would like to run a voter registration drive at your school or community. We would provide you with the training and resources needed to do so.
Join our team of volunteers and make a difference in your community. We host events in which we raise awareness to our initiative and provide resources to help young people register to vote. You can reach out to us about volunteer oportunities through our email address linked below. Your time and skills would be greatly appreciated.
Stay up-to-date on all the latest news and happenings at Access the Ballot by following us on social media. We're active on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
We're always looking for new partners to collaborate with on projects and events. If your organization shares our values and mission, let's work together to make a positive impact.
Help us raise awareness of our mission and programs by sharing our website, social media pages, and events with your friends, family, and colleagues.