Voting is Public Health
Discover how voting influences health policies that improve individual and community well-being. Our guide highlights the profound connection between civic engagement and public health, emphasizing the critical role voting plays in shaping policies that affect health equity, gun violence, climate change and more.
Together, we can build a healthier, more equitable society through active civic engagement. Every vote counts in shaping a better future for public health.
Why Voting Matters for Public Health
Voting directly impacts public health outcomes by shaping policies that address social determinants of health such as employment, housing, education, and environmental quality. Evidence shows that inclusive voting policies lead to better health outcomes, while restrictive laws can result in adverse health effects, such as higher COVID-19 mortality rates.
Empowering Public Health Professionals
Public health professionals have a unique opportunity to lead the charge in promoting civic engagement. By harnessing their collective influence, they can advocate for policies that support healthier communities and drive systemic change toward health equity.
Actions Organizations Can Take
ASPPH encourages our members—and all entities—to become voter-friendly organizations by fostering environments that actively encourage and facilitate voter participation among faculty, students, and community members. Key strategies to pursue include:
Voter Registration
Drives
Partner with organizations like Independent Sector and Nonprofit VOTE to conduct voter registration campaigns.
Campus-Wide
Initiatives
Coordinate efforts to enhance voter registration and turnout and educate individuals on the importance of voting.
Voter-Friendly
Designation
Achieve recognition as a Voter Friendly Campus through partnerships with NASPA and the Fair Elections Center.
Time Off to Vote
Policies
Establish and promote organizational policies that provide employees with time off to vote. See Nonprofit Vote’s Sample Staff Policies for Time Off to Vote.
Promote Poll Worker Participation
Encourage staff to sign up as poll workers to ensure smooth election operations. See Power the Polls and Protect the Vote.
Encourage
Voting
Use leadership communications to encourage staff and community members to vote. Nonprofits can use Nonprofit Votes’ Get Out the Vote Email Templates.
Key Voting Dates for the 2024 Election Season
National Voter Registration Day: September 17
National Voter Education Week: October 7-11
National Vote Early Day: October 29
Election Day: November 5
Tools and Resources
Access our comprehensive guide designed for ASPPH members and those working in public health to promote voting as a public health priority. Downloadable resources include sample email/newsletter posts, social media templates, and help in combating misinformation and disinformation.
Together, we can build a healthier, more equitable society through active civic engagement. Every vote counts in shaping a better future for public health.