The 2022 midterm elections are fast approaching. These elections hold tremendous importance, and the results will impact every American. That’s why it’s essential to vote.

This year’s election, held nationally on Tuesday, November 8, goes beyond who will represent us in Congress. Voters will also elect representatives at the state, county, and city levels. Additionally, your vote will determine how California and its cities will move forward on important propositions, including reproductive rights, women's health, and other health care-related issues.

Here are five reasons why you should register to vote, vote early, and vote often:

1. Elections have consequences. Every vote matters.

You have the power to make key decisions on the quality of life you want for yourself, your family, and your community. Voting is your chance to stand up for the issues you care about like affordable housing, economic justice, environmental protection, and quality education.

While Presidential or other national elections draw significant attention, midterm and local elections typically see less voter turnout. A Portland State University study found that fewer than 15% of eligible voters were turning out to vote for Mayors, Council Members, and other local offices.

Low turnout means that important local issues are determined by a limited group of voters, making a single vote even more statistically meaningful. While certain propositions may be popular, and therefore seem like a sure thing, they can fail if people stay home.

2. It’s your right. Not voting is giving up your voice.

Today, most American citizens over the age of 18 are entitled to vote in federal and state elections, but voting was not always a right for all Americans.

Because the Constitution did not specifically say who could vote, this question was largely left to the states in the 1800s. While no longer explicitly excluded, voter suppression is a problem in many parts of the country.

It was not until the 15th Amendment was passed in 1869 that black men were allowed to vote. But even so, many would-be voters faced measures meant to discourage them from exercising that right. This would continue until the 24th Amendment in 1964, which eliminated the poll tax, and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which ended Jim Crow laws. Women were denied the right to vote until 1920, when the long efforts of the women’s suffrage movement finally resulted in the 19th Amendment.

Later, in 1971, the American voting age was lowered to 18, building on the idea that if a person was old enough to serve their country in the military, they should be allowed to vote.

It took many years of marching, protesting, and fighting for all of us to have the right to vote. Use your right. Exert your power.

3. It's your money.

One way or the other, every person in our community pays taxes – both citizens and non-citizens. And yet, most people don’t know how that money is being used. Voting is your chance to choose how your tax dollars are spent, such as additional funding for health care and social services. This happens both through your vote on specific propositions and ballot measures, as well as those we elect to leadership positions that commit to supporting key social services in our communities.

4. Voting is an opportunity for change.

Do you want to make a positive impact in your community? Voting gives you that chance! There are many social issues affected by elections, including (but not limited to) gay marriage, reproductive rights, environmental issues, public education, etc. Social issues affect everyone in one way or another. To have a say in who gets to determine social agendas, it’s essential to vote.

5. The community depends on you!

Our communities are made up of family, friends, loved ones, neighbors, and children. Some may not know how important voting is, while others cannot vote. Make the decision to vote to be a voice for yourself and those around you.

Make sure your voice is heard – your vote is your health. Vote!

Being the change you want to see.

Help make a difference in your community during this general election and join our us in the My Vote. My Health.™ initiative. By visiting our website, you can check your registration status, voting locations, and download other resources to help get out the vote in your community.

In the June 2022 primary election, we reached over 209,000 new and low propensity Latino voters in our Orange County and Los Angeles County AltaMed service areas. We also hosted a total of 17 voting locations at various clinic sites.

If you do not quality to vote, you can still participate.

If you are not yet 18 (if you are at least 16 years of age you can pre-register to vote in the state of California), or are not a United States citizen, you can still participate in the following ways:

• Get informed. Read up on issues (both local and national) and figure out where you stand. Our partners at the League of Women Voters and California Plus Health Advocates both offer helpful information about what to expect on this year’s ballot.
• Get out and talk to people. Even if you cannot vote, you can still voice opinions in public forums. When people engage each other about the issues, we stand to become better-informed citizens.
• Volunteer. You can work with outreach campaigns by volunteering to get out the vote in your community through phone banks, door-to-door outreach, and texting. To volunteer at AltaMed, click here.

Pride Month is an excellent opportunity for individuals and communities to come together in support of LGBTQ+ equality and inclusion. This is especially important today, as conservatives seek to limit or outright remove the rights of LGBTQ+ people. 

If large events and parades aren’t your thing, there are still numerous ways to celebrate Pride Month and show solidarity with the community. Let’s look at some simple yet impactful ways to honor and celebrate Pride Month.

Educate Yourself

Take the time to educate yourself about LGBTQ+ history, culture, and current issues. Understanding the struggles and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community can help foster empathy, respect, and inclusivity. Resources such as books, documentaries, and online articles can provide valuable insights. Consider checking out:

• The Trevor Project
• GLAAD
• Human Rights Campaign

Attend Local Pride Events

Check local community calendars for Pride Month events in your area. Many organizations and community centers host virtual or smaller-scale events. Participate in online panel discussions, workshops, or virtual pride parades to show your support.

Wear Pride Colors

Displaying the rainbow flag, a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride, is a simple and visible way to show support. Hang a rainbow flag in your home, office, or community space. Alternatively, wear clothing or accessories featuring pride colors or ribbons to express your solidarity.

Support LGBTQ+ Businesses

Make a conscious effort to support LGBTQ+-owned businesses and organizations. Shop at LGBTQ+ bookstores, cafes, or businesses, or donate to LGBTQ+ charities. By contributing to these enterprises, you actively support their success and help create a more inclusive economy.

Advocate for LGBTQ+ Rights

Use your voice and platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ protections and equality. Write to your elected officials, sign petitions, or support organizations working toward LGBTQ+ rights. Amplify LGBTQ+ voices and share educational content on social media to raise awareness and promote acceptance.

Volunteer for LGBTQ+ Organizations

Consider volunteering your time and skills with LGBTQ+ organizations. They often require assistance with events, programs, or initiatives that aim to support and uplift the community. Volunteering allows you to make a meaningful difference while connecting with like-minded individuals.

Educate Others

Engage in conversations with friends, family, or coworkers about the importance of LGBTQ+ acceptance and inclusion. Share your knowledge, correct misconceptions, and encourage open dialogue. By fostering understanding, you can help create a more inclusive environment for everyone.

Pride Month serves as a reminder to celebrate diversity, promote equality, and support the LGBTQ+ community. It also honors the incredible bravery and sacrifices made by people who just wanted to be equal. By taking simple yet meaningful actions, we can show our allyship and commitment to creating a world where everyone can live authentically and without fear of discrimination. Let's make Pride Month a time for education, celebration, and a renewed dedication to building a more inclusive society.

Remember, this is just a starting point, and there are countless other ways to celebrate Pride Month. Let's strive for ongoing support, acceptance, and inclusivity throughout the year, making every month a celebration of love, diversity, and equality.

Supporting You at AltaMed

You are not alone. AltaMed is here to help you grow proud. If recent political, family, or personal events have negatively impacted your mental health, don’t wait to get help. Our Behavioral Health team is available to provide short-term therapy to help you overcome many immediate challenges. We can also connect you with mental health services if you need long-term therapy. For additional help finding mental health resources, visit CalHOPE.

There are Licensed Clinical Social Workers who speak English and Spanish available in our Los Angeles County and Orange County locations. To learn more about our services, call us today at (855) 425-1777.