Time's Running Out—Your Vote Matters for LGBTQ+ Rights!
The last day to register to vote in Pennsylvania is October 21. Don't miss your chance to make your voice heard!
Why vote?
Across the country, we’ve witnessed alarming attacks on queer and trans rights. This election is crucial because policies being proposed could directly impact access to life-saving care for queer, trans, and non-binary people. If we don’t act, we risk bans on access to medically necessary care.
Bans on gender-affirming care could limit or restrict access to critical, proven, often life-saving care for transgender youths and adults.
Removal of support for LGBTQ+ families will make it harder for queer and trans parents to access legal protections and family services.
Loss of protections against sex-based discrimination, rolling back hard-won rights in employment, housing, and education.
Threats to healthcare access could potentially lead to the loss of insurance coverage for millions of people.
These attacks on fundamental rights could set us back decades in the fight for equality and justice. This is not just about individual policies, but a larger movement to undermine the safety, dignity, and well-being of queer and trans people.
You can register to vote online, by mail, or in person at your local election office. Registering online is a quick process. You need a state ID or driver’s license to register, but you don’t need to upload any documents!
What if my gender identifier, name, or appearance doesn’t match my ID?
You should still be allowed to vote. Voter ID laws can be challenging—don’t let this deter you! For detailed guidance, check out this helpful Election Day guide from Transform the Vote.
How else can I get involved?
We need to organize, advocate, and fight back through every available channel. Whether it’s showing up at protests, making your voice heard in local government, or supporting organizations working on the frontlines, there are multiple ways to resist harmful measures and create a safer future for queer and trans communities.
Vote in local elections: Local elections often have an immediate impact on your daily life—schools, roads, housing policies, policing, etc. Staying informed about your community’s issues and participating in city council meetings, town halls, and school board elections allows you to directly influence decisions that affect you and your neighbors.
Volunteer for community organizations: Nonprofits, local shelters, food banks, and community development organizations always need volunteers. Whether it’s helping distribute food, tutoring kids, or cleaning up parks, you’ll get to know and support your neighbors.
Join or support activist movements: Grassroots organizations working on issues like LGBTQ+ rights and healthcare often need volunteers for everything from spreading awareness to organizing events. Being part of a collective effort can be empowering and effective in enacting change.
Now is the time to act, to protect our rights, and to ensure that we don’t lose the progress we’ve made. Every vote, every action, and every voice counts.
Voting FAQ
How do I check if I’m registered to vote?
If you're a Pennsylvania resident, you can check your voter registration status here. It only takes a few minutes.
Am I eligible to vote?
Visit this helpful guide to learn the voting eligibility requirements, where your local election office is, and more.
Can I vote by mail?
After registering to vote, you can apply for a mail-in or absentee ballot online. You can also apply by mail or by visiting your local county election office. The deadline to apply to receive a mail-in or absentee ballot is October 29.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, we’re here for you. Schedule a free chat today with one of our LGBTQ-identified therapists who understands.