Streets have long been a platform to build community and address issues of public concern, from protests and marches to conversations with your neighbors on the sidewalk. Even though we can’t be physically close to fellow community members right now, there are many ways to safely engage, connect, and build a better future during this time, including getting involved with the upcoming election.
Elections are important opportunities to weigh in on the issues that matter most to you, and this year’s November 3rd election is no different! The leaders we elect will make decisions that affect the safety of our streets, from police brutality issues to funding for public transit.
Get connected to your community! To participate, do one or more of the following:
- Sign up to phone bank for your favorite local or national candidate on the ballot in November
- Check out what’s on the agenda for your city/town’s next council meeting and give public comment (written, in-person, or virtually) on an issue you care about
- Send your City Councilor or State Representative an email thanking them for an issue they’ve been leading on or a recent vote
- Add yourself to LivableStreets’ volunteer list. We draw on this list periodically to recruit Street Ambassadors for campaigns or for help with events.
- Reach out to your neighborhood association, local community development corporation, Main Streets, or other community-based organization to learn how you can get involved. Many are still meeting virtually during this time.
- Start a listserv for your apartment building, block, or street so you and your neighbors can stay connected
- If you live in Boston and are in the position to do so, join Good Neighbors, where you can volunteer to make deliveries and check in on those at risk from COVID-19
- Sign up to be a poll worker (more info)
And don’t forget to double-check:
- Are you registered to vote in the November 3rd election? In Massachusetts, the deadline to register to vote is October 24. We have many important offices on the ballot this fall at the national and local levels, as well as two ballot measures. To learn more about important dates and how to vote by mail or vote early this election, click here.
- Have you filled out the 2020 Census yet? If not, make sure to fill it out by September 30!
How do I get credit for participating?
Follow the instructions in each activity and share your participation with us on social media! Tag us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram and use the hashtags #TourDeStreets2020 and/or #TourYourStreets to enter in your submission for points. If you don’t have social media, you can also email your submissions to [email protected]. You will receive 1 point for each activity you participate in, and participation in certain activities is eligible for prizes (ex. street haiku contest).