Being able to vote in the 2020 election felt huge for me — not only was it my first time voting, but it was my first chance to add my voice to a country that’s still figuring out how to include a great variety of people, specifically those from marginalized communities.
Voting gave me a say in the policies that shape my life, like immigration, healthcare and education. It’s not just a right: it’s a way to hold leaders accountable and push for the type of future we wish to see.
However, voting isn’t as easy for some as it is for others. Certain barriers exist that affect minority communities in the United States and compromise their political influence. Acknowledging these obstacles is essential to ensure fair access to voting and representation for all Americans.
From difficult voter ID requirements to limited polling locations in marginalized communities, there are a variety of obstacles for many minority voters. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) identifies these barriers as more than just logistical – they reinforce inequality and weaken the collective power of affected communities.
One major barrier is voter ID laws and registration requirements. According to the Brennan Center, individuals from minority communities are more likely to lack a government-issued ID compared to white Americans.
This can create financial and logistical burdens for voters who may face challenges in obtaining necessary identification due to limited access to issuing offices, the cost of documents or rigid regulations around accepted forms of ID.
Restricted access to polling is also another challenge that affects minority voters. According to the League of Women Voters, there have been frequent poll closings, particularly in low-income communities.
This forces many voters to travel long distances in order to express their right. This increased burden can deter working-class individuals who may lack the flexibility to take time off from work, reducing minority voter turnout.
Voter roll purges and disenfranchisement further hinders voting access. Intended to maintain accurate records, voter roll purges often disproportionately target minority voters, resulting in ineligible voters being turned away on Election Day.
To bridge the gap in voting accessibility, advocacy groups like the ACLU and the League of Women Voters call for policies and reforms that make voting more accessible. These organizations propose measures such as automatic voter registration, early voting and mail-in voting.
Voting is not just a right: it is an opportunity for many to be heard. Ensuring that every citizen has the ability to participate in elections is essential for a representative democracy. By acknowledging and dismantling these challenges, the U.S. can take significant steps toward a more inclusive electoral system.
