Here in Florida, the primary election day is Tuesday, August 24, but fortunately our polls are open for early voting. From August 9 to August 14 and August 16 to 21, every U.S. citizen over the age of 18 should be able to cast a vote. This right to suffrage, or right to vote, is one that many take for granted. However, this right did not come about easily and it continues to be challenged today.

In the early history of the United States, most Americans were legally denied the right to vote. Initially most states only allowed white male property owners to vote. Later, property ownership requirements were eliminated and black males were given the right to vote. Even later, women were granted the right to vote. Many toiled, fought, and died for us, today, to have the right to suffrage. Even with this legal right to vote, many have been disenfranchised, that is, denied the right to vote.

Many tactics have been used to disenfranchise voters. In the 1800s and 1900s, many minority and poor voters were denied the right to register to vote when a poll tax was charged or a literacy test was required. Today, voters are still disenfranchised with practices such as distributing incorrect information about voter eligibility and polling places. Additionally, incidents continue to be reported involving voter intimidation at the polls. These tactics typically target minority and low-income communities.

A number of organizations throughout the country are dedicated to protecting our voting rights. The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law helped form Election Protection to ensure that all voters have the opportunity to participate in the political process. Election Protection has mobilized thousands of trained volunteers including thousands of pro bono (free) attorneys to protect voters’ rights by educating voters, monitoring polling locations and providing legal support to poll monitors. Election Protection volunteers help resolve issues such as voter registration problems, the absentee balloting process and voter intimidation. If voters encounter any difficulties in registering to vote or casting a ballot they can call Election Protection at 1-866-OUR-VOTE. For more information regarding this organization you can also visit their website at 866ourvote.org.

When going to vote you must have a Picture ID with a signature. A number of acceptable photo identification options are:

1. Florida Driver’s License

2. Florida ID Card

3. U.S. Passport

4. Public Assistance ID

5. Military ID

6. Student ID

Your current Voter Information Card is helpful but not necessary to vote.

Additionally resources for voter assistance are the Florida Division of Elections and your County’s Supervisor or Elections. For example, the Broward County Supervisor of Election may be contacted at (954) 357-7050 and the Miami-Dade Elections Department at (305) 499-VOTE.