Rev Up Philly Coalition
Image description: Philadelphia city skyline as the sun comes up!
REV UP Philly is part of a national campaign to include the 60 million Americans with disabilities in the election process.
Our mission is to foster civic engagement and protect the voting rights of Americans with disabilities. REV UP stands for “Register! Educate! Vote! Use your Power!”
Join us as we POWER the Disability VOTE!
FACTS:
In Pennsylvania:
1,072,129 Registered Voters
507,992 Voted
Check your registration.
Check your ballot.
Join the COALITION of Philadelphia residents, workers, organizations, and businesses to affect change in Philadelphia County for people with disabilities and seniors!
What is Non-Partisan and why is it Important in our Work?
For a 501(c)(3) organization, being nonpartisan means a strict prohibition on engaging in political campaign activities, such as endorsing or opposing any candidate for public office, making political contributions, or intervening in elections, to maintain tax-exempt status and donor trust. While they can educate voters and advocate on policy issues (lobbying), they must remain neutral regarding candidates, providing balanced information to empower voters rather than swaying them for a particular party or person, ensuring all activities focus on the organization's charitable mission.
Key Prohibitions
No Candidate Support/Opposition: Cannot support or oppose candidates in any election (local, state, or federal).
No Campaign Contributions: Cannot donate to political campaigns or candidates.
No "Campaign Intervention": Cannot engage in activities that directly help or hurt a candidate, like making public statements for or against them.
Neutrality on Resources: Must treat all candidates equally if using facilities or resources, often requiring fair market value payments.
Permitted Activities (with caveats)
Voter Education: Can provide nonpartisan voter guides, host forums, and offer voter registration, focusing on informing voters about issues and candidates' stances without bias.
Issue Advocacy (Lobbying): Can advocate for specific issues, but with limits on the amount of lobbying, and never in connection with a specific election or candidate.
Fair Treatment: If discussing issues, they must present diverse perspectives and allow all candidates to participate in events equally.
Why It Matters
Trust: Maintains public trust as impartial problem-solvers, not partisan actors.
Effectiveness: Ensures the organization's focus stays on its mission rather than internal political debates.
Legal Requirement: Failure to adhere to these rules can jeopardize the organization's tax-exempt status.
Check out the videos made by the community!
Thank you to Easterseals of Southeastern PA for all of their help to produce these videos! Descriptions are AI generated.
Register, Educate, Vote- Use Your Power
Chuck Horton, a board member of Disability Pride Pennsylvania, emphasizes the vital role of voting in ensuring that the voices of individuals with disabilities are heard and represented. He reflects on the challenges that many face in accessing polling places, understanding ballots, and navigating the voting process. Chuck advocates for increased accessibility and awareness, believing that everyone, regardless of ability, deserves the right to participate in democracy. He encourages individuals to engage in the electoral process and make informed choices, highlighting that every vote counts and contributes to a more inclusive society.
Rodney Whitmore, a dedicated employee at Liberty Resources Inc. and gun shoot survivor, actively champions the importance of voting among individuals with disabilities. With a strong belief in civic engagement, Rodney works tirelessly to ensure that every voice is heard and that all community members have the resources and support they need to participate in the electoral process. His advocacy goes beyond just raising awareness; he provides practical assistance, helping individuals navigate voting logistics and access accommodations. Rodney's commitment to empowering others exemplifies the critical role that informed voters play in shaping a more inclusive society.
In this video, State Representative Joe Hohenstein discusses the vital role of voting for individuals with disabilities. He highlights how participation empowers marginalized voices and ensures diverse representation in government. Hohenstein addresses the challenges faced by voters with disabilities and emphasizes the need for accessible voting options. This conversation reinforces that every vote matters and encourages active engagement in the democratic process.
Shane Janick, CEO of The Arc of Philadelphia, emphasizes the critical importance of voting for individuals with disabilities. He notes that participation in democracy enables people to have a say in the policies that directly impact their lives. Janick explains that voting is not just a right, but a necessary avenue for advocacy, allowing individuals to voice their needs and preferences.
Michael Anderson, an advocate with The Arc, echoes these sentiments, highlighting the unique challenges faced by voters with disabilities. He points to barriers such as accessibility issues at polling places and the need for better education on voting rights. Anderson advocates for increased awareness and support to ensure that all individuals with disabilities can exercise their right to vote without hindrance.
Together, Janick and Anderson stress the importance of mobilizing the community. They encourage individuals with disabilities to engage in the electoral process, not only by voting but also by advocating for changes that will enhance accessibility and representation. Their conversation underscores that every vote counts and that informed voting is essential for creating a more inclusive society.
Domonique Howell, Independent Living Specialist and Ms. Wheelchair PA 2023, advocates for disability rights and representation. As co-founder of Momma Chronicles Too, she empowers individuals to share their stories. In her latest initiative, she stresses the importance of voting for the disability community, as each vote impacts policies on accessibility, healthcare, and support services. By promoting electoral engagement, Domonique seeks to amplify the voices of people with disabilities and prioritize their needs in government.
Tony Brooks emphasizes that voting is a fundamental right and responsibility for all citizens. It is a powerful way to voice opinions, influence policy, and ensure that the needs of the community are addressed.
For individuals with disabilities, participating in elections can impact legislation related to accessibility, healthcare, education, and other critical areas. By voting, they can help shape a future that prioritizes inclusivity and equality.
Tony points out that every vote counts, and history has shown that elections can be decided by a remarkably small number of votes. Therefore, it is crucial for every eligible voter, especially those from marginalized communities, to make their voices heard.
Moreover, he highlights the importance of being informed about candidates and their positions on issues that matter to people with disabilities. Engaging in the political process not only empowers individuals but also fosters a sense of belonging and agency in society.
In summary, Tony Brooks advocates for active participation in voting as a means to influence change and advocate for the rights of all individuals, particularly those with disabilities. It is a vital component of a thriving democracy.
Resources - thanks to our friends at Rev Up Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Capital-Star https://www.penncapital-sta.com/
Spotlight PA https://www.spotlightpa.org/
City and State PA https://www.cityandstatepa.com/
Politics PA https://www.politicspa.com/
Upcoming Elections: https://www.vote.pa.gov/About-Elections/Pages/Upcoming-Elections.aspx
Voting in PA: https://www.vote.pa.gov/Voting-in-PA/Pages/Accessible-Voting.aspx
How to become a poll worker: https://www.vote.pa.gov/Resources/Pages/Be-a-Poll-Worker.aspx
PA Poll Worker Interest Form: https://paebrprod.powerappsportals.us/EBR/DOS/Votes-PA-County/
Krystle Knight, of VOTE RIDERS:
https://www.voteriders.org/
The goal of their organization which is to assist voters with the proper ID required to register and vote. The non-profit organization works across the nation to reduce the impact of stringent voter ID laws.
(866) OUR-VOTE
This hotline is sponsored by a broad coalition of civil rights organizations and is not disability specific, but all voters are encouraged to report issues this year regarding accessibility to voting. This is especially important given the number of new election directors and increasing poll worker turnover where a minor mistake could be construed negatively.
Hotline is in English, but website offers other languages. Hotline & Voter Info - Election Protection
Disability Map of Philadelphia
A map of disability characteristics in Philadelphia was created in partnership with the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, Managing Director’s Office, and Philly Counts.
Within the map, you can add layers, including neighborhoods, City Council districts, and more to see specific disability data of those geographic areas. Additional layers of age, race, and ethnicity can also be viewed. The map data comes from the U.S. Census American Community Survey
Thank you to American Association of Persons with Disabilities (AAPD) and Liberty Resources for providing the funding to start our local initiative.