Voting is Public Health
As a leading advocate for voter participation within the public
health community and beyond, and a proud participant in
Health & Democracy Partners, ASPPH’s “Voting is Public
Health” campaign aims to increase awareness of the link
between voting and health outcomes across the general public
while also encouraging civic engagement, particularly within
the public health field.
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 decreased access to healthcare and less funding for public health programs.
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.
The Importance of Voting and Countering MisInformation in Public Health
This webinar covered how voting shapes public health policies, ASPPH’s efforts to promote civic engagement, and insights from Healthy Democracy, Healthy People on improving civic health. The role of public health professionals in addressing misinformation during election cycles was also explored.
Ready to Make Your Organization Voter-Friendly?
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:
Join Civic Engagement Initiatives
Partner with organizations like Health & Democracy Partners to strengthen non-partisan civic leadership across your organization. (email:
gnora@responsivegov.org for
more details).
For ASPPH members, we provide “Voting is Public Health” stickers and buttons that can be ordered here.
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 2026 Election Season
National Voter Registration Day: September 15
National Voter Education Week: October 5-9
National Vote Early Day: October 24
Election Day: November 3
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.
Voting is Public Health Campaign
At ASPPH, we believe in the power of informed decisions. By voting, you help shape a system that champions health equity, strengthens academic programs, and drives policies to protect and enhance community health. Explore our ‘Voting Is Public Health’ campaign on social media to discover how your vote directly impacts public health.
