The South is often painted with a broad stroke as an unchangeable conservative landscape, but time and time again civil rights leaders and engaged constituents show up to change the narrative. Year after year Georgia continues to break records with voter turnout. This year is no different. The streets are hot and the polls are active with over a quarter million early votes cast and Black voters making up nearly 100,000 of those votes. We know what’s at stake and we’re showing up to do our part. 

The candidates for this year’s Georgia primary include those running for Governor, Georgia Supreme and Superior Courts, Congress, Superintendent, District Attorney, Attorney General…I could go on. The ballot is long this year, but that just means there’s plenty of opportunity to make your voice heard. 

Making an informed decision means doing your research. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to get the information you need. Get started by checking the mvp.sos.ga.gov website to see what your sample ballot looks like.

Then you can check each candidate’s website to get an idea of their stance on the issues. Another way to stay informed is to tune into news sources or connect with organizations like Women Engaged that you trust to learn more about candidates and policy agendas.

If nothing else, call that one cousin who always has something to say about politics. If you’re reading this, that cousin may be you, so talk to your family and friends to get them engaged! Whoever you are, read some articles, listen to podcasts, watch debates and discussions. Arm yourself with the knowledge you need to make the choice that is right for you. 

Once you have the information you need, the next step is deciding what to do with it. Although you can’t have notes pulled up on your phone in the booth, you can bring a filled sample ballot or a sheet of paper with you to help you remember your choices. Go cast your ballot! 

The people you choose for these roles will impact not only Georgia, but the entire country, and by extension, the world. Build power in your community today by asking your friends, family, neighbors if they’re ready to vote.