“Get Out the Vote”

From the desk of Rabbi David Lyon

On November 3, 2020, we’ll all vote in our national election. Regardless of your voting preference, which is a private matter, the sharp focus put on this election makes it another critical time in 2020, to grasp what is at stake. Congregation Beth Israel’s Social Justice Committee (ABIDE), chaired by Lisa Stone and Dena Marks, has provided essential information for you to vote, participate in election day, and to make a difference as active, engaged and proud citizens. Let’s all do our part for the future! Let’s get ready now!

Congregation Beth Israel votes!

How to vote:
If you can vote by mail, please do so, for your safety and public safety.
If you need to vote in person, please plan to vote early if possible.
In all cases, MAKE A PLAN how, when and where you will vote.
You can view a sample ballot for the Nov 3 election here:
https://www.harrisvotes.com/VotingInfo?lang=en-US
You can make notes and bring them with you into the voting booth!

Voting by mail:
If you are 65 or older, you can register to vote by mail permanently.
If you are sick, disabled (this term is not defined) or will be out of Harris County on Nov 3, you can register to vote by mail for one election.
Read the directions carefully to make sure you meet the requirements and deadlines:
https://www.harrisvotes.com/VotingInfo?lang=en-US#VoteByMail

Be a DEMOCRACY HERO—be a poll worker!
If you are healthy and at low risk for Coronavirus, PLEASE consider becoming an official poll worker.
Right now there are not enough poll workers to open all the needed polling places. In Texas, teens 16 years and older are eligible. To get more information about a paid position as a poll worker:
https://www.eac.gov/help-america-vote  (You’ll need to enter “Texas” then “Harris” or another county.)

You can find voting information at
https://www.harrisvotes.com/VotingInfo?lang=en-US

Critical dates

• Oct. 5: Last day to register to vote
• Oct. 13: First day of early voting
• Voting locations & hours are available soon at www.harrisvotes.com/VotingInfo?lang=en-US
• Oct. 23: Vote by mail applications must be received (NOT postmarked)
• Oct. 30: Last day of early voting
• Nov. 3: Election Day – If you vote in person, please be prepared for delays and possible challenges; make sure you are registered and have a proper photo ID with you.

Thanks for Voting!

From my family to yours, Shabbat Shalom,