We at CVI recognize that in order to achieve a true democracy, we need to include everyone – especially those who have been left out. This is also true when it comes to defending our democracy from politicians who would exclude voters from the ballot box.
Over the past month, CVI’s Civic Engagement program has brought together partners across Idaho to launch a coordinated effort to stop over a dozen bills that would have made voting much more difficult for all Idahoans. As CVI’s Civic Engagement Coordinator, I have been moved by the courage, dedication and astuteness of these Idahoans who have worked with us, including League of Women Voters, American Association of University Women, Idaho Access Project, Disability Rights Idaho, ACLU of Idaho, National Organization of Women, BABE VOTE and many more.
What can you do to help?
Currently, the most significant threat to our right to vote is House Bill H761. This legislation would completely overhaul Idaho’s election process and create confusing changes for poll workers and voters at a hefty expense to taxpayers. Senator Patti Anne Lodge, the Chair of Senate State Affairs, has so far blocked a significant number of voter restriction bills from being heard in her committee. Help us let her know Idaho voters are counting on her to protect Idaho voters’ rights. Call Senator Lodge’s office at 208-332-1326 and request her to hold back H761.
The best practice is to say your name, that you are a voter and that it’s important to you that she continue to hold the line for voting rights and hold H761 in committee. We also want to thank her for her votes on election bills so far, including her “no” votes on S1375 and S1376. Join us!
Treefort & CVI = Civic Engagement Extravaganza
CVI is excited to announce that we will be participating in this year’s Treefort Music Festival! CVI is one of eight selected nonprofit organizations taking part of the Treefort for Good section outside of Main Stage on 12th St. Stop by our booth to get to know our team, find new ways to connect to our mission, spin our “Wheel of Fortune” and get your picture taken with our Vota Mariposa butterfly wings. You’ll be able to visit us throughout Treefort; Wednesday March 23 through March 27, 2022. Visit the Treefort website for more information on the festival.
Job Opportunity: Canvassing with PODER of Idaho
Our partners at PODER of Idaho are out door-knocking in Canyon County and they’re looking for help! Help them qualify the Quality of Education Act through a ballot initiative process by collecting signatures in support. Canvassers can work up to 10 hours a week, with a flexible schedule, and pay is $20/hour. Read the job description and apply here.
In the News
Treefort’s nonprofit row connects festival-goers to advocacy and civic engagement (The Arbiter)
‘Lifting up the folks around her’: Toni Belknap-Brinegar inspires people to action (Idaho Press)
Senators kill 2 bills to change voting laws, call for interim study (Idaho Press)