Editing:2020.10.27 GOTV: Election Day procedures

October 27, 2020 -- The 2020 U.S. elections are underway, and the Sikh Coalition wants to make sure you’re prepared--and that you know your rights--if you head to the polls in person over the next week. Early voting has begun in more than 35 states, and tens of millions of Americans have already cast their ballots.

Below are some important guidelines before you head out to vote in person:

You can use our checklist to make a plan for how and when you’ll vote. Visit bit.ly/sikh-gotv in order to confirm the location and hours of your polling place.
It is important to know what kind of ID, if any, you are required to present at the polls. Check your state’s voter ID requirements at https://www.vote.org/voter-id-laws/.
If you originally requested or received a mail-in (absentee) ballot but are now planning to vote in person, be sure to check your state’s rules: Many states require you to bring your ballot in order to cast a new one.

While at your polling place, be sure to remember:

If someone tries to prevent you from voting, or you observe anyone threatening or intimidating voters, call the nonpartisan Election Protection Hotline at 866-687-8683 (866-OUR-VOTE).
Stay in line! As long as you are in line, you will be allowed to cast your ballot--even if the polls close.
If you are told to cast a provisional ballot, ask for 1) written instructions about what to do to ensure that your vote will be counted and 2) a phone number so you can follow-up. Provisional ballots are only for when registration or eligibility is in dispute.

You can share several of these reminders in our latest graphic series on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Please continue to check out our website for more information about voting, or email gotv@sikhcoalition.org with any questions.

Finally, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and a recent surge in cases across the nation, we urge you to follow all local regulations and medical professionals’ advice--including by wearing a mask at all times and maintaining six feet of distance from others whenever possible.

As always, the Sikh Coalition urges you to practice your faith fearlessly.

Note: The Sikh Coalition is a non-partisan, non-profit organization. All Get Out The Vote (GOTV) work is being done in support of broader Sikh American civic engagement, and not for the benefit of any candidate, elected official, or political party.

[GOTV]: Election Day Procedures