In August, Rev. Carol helped us remember the 100th anniversary of Women’s Suffrage. It is easy to forget that the right to vote was hard-won. This year as voting has begun around the country, we are being reminded of that right and responsibility in new ways. People in Georgia are standing in line for up to 8 hours to vote. People in Texas are traveling for many miles to place their ballots in the one ballot box per county. People in California are seeing unofficial ballot boxes and unsure about their legality.
Here in Washington, we are fortunate to have a long history of easy access to voting by mail. In the weeks ahead, people around the country will brave long lines, long waits, and potentially unhealthy and unsafe conditions in order to cast their ballots in person. We have it easy.
This year, more than ever, it is important to spend some time considering our values and voting to reflect them. What values do you want to be represented in the local, state, and national officeholders? What perspectives do you want held? What vision of the future do you want to support?
I know that many of you have worked for and supported candidates this year. Some of you have worked on voter education campaigns. Many of you have written letters and postcards and made phone calls. Thank you for your work. This is democracy in action.
Please consider your values.  And please vote. Accepting responsibility for our democracy has never been more important.
Blessings on your week, and your ballot.
Be well and stay safe.
Rev. Mary
P.S. If you’d like some information about the Unitarian Universalist response to this election year check out UU The Vote here.
