As election season approaches, it's more important than ever for citizens to be informed and prepared when casting their ballots. Being an educated voter ensures that your choices align with your values and contribute to the democratic process.

Here are some key steps to help you prepare:

1. Research the Candidates and Issues Take the time to understand who the candidates are and what they stand for. Look beyond party affiliations and explore their platforms, policies, and past performance. Many non-partisan organizations provide summaries and comparisons of candidates' positions on key issues. Additionally, consider attending local debates or town halls to hear directly from the candidates.

2. Understand the Ballot Measures In addition to selecting candidates, voters often face decisions on various ballot measures, including constitutional amendments, local ordinances, and bond issues. These can have significant impacts on your community and daily life. Read the full text of each measure and seek out impartial analyses to understand the potential consequences of a "yes" or "no" vote.

3. Check Your Registration and Voting Options Ensure that your voter registration is up to date, especially if you've recently moved or changed your name. Many states offer online registration checks and updates. Also, familiarize yourself with your voting options, whether it's voting in person on Election Day, early voting, or mail-in voting. Knowing these details ahead of time can help you avoid last-minute issues.

4. Use Credible Sources In the age of misinformation, it's crucial to rely on credible sources for your information. Look for reputable news outlets, fact-checking organizations, and official government websites. Be wary of sensationalist headlines and social media posts that may spread false information. Cross-reference information from multiple reliable sources to get a well-rounded view.

5. Discuss and Engage Engage in discussions with friends, family, and community members about the upcoming election. These conversations can offer new perspectives and help clarify your own thoughts. However, be mindful of echo chambers and strive to have respectful, fact-based discussions.

6. Plan Your Vote Once you're informed, make a plan for how and when you'll vote. Decide whether you'll vote in person or by mail, and if the latter, ensure you know the deadlines for equesting and submitting your ballot. Mark your calendar with these dates to avoid missing your opportunity to participate.

Voting is a fundamental right and responsibility in a democracy. By taking these steps to educate yourself, you can make informed decisions that reflect your values and contribute to the well-being of your community and country. Let's all do our part to be educated voters this election season!

On McKinsey.com Closing the women’s health gap. Because of disparities in care delivery, data, and efficacy, women spend 25% more time in poor health than men do. A recent analysis from the McKinsey Health Institute, in collaboration with the World Economic Forum, finds that closing the global women’s health gap could result in better overall health, fewer early deaths, and as much as a $1 trillion economic boost, McKinsey senior partner Lucy Pérez and coauthors share. Women’s distinctive health. Tackling the women’s health gap means understanding that women’s biology is different from men’s in ways beyond reproductive organs. Child, maternal, newborn, sexual, and reproductive health account for only 5% of the women’s health burden. In comparison, more than half of the burden reflects conditions that affect women disproportionately or differently than they do men, with most of the conditions affecting women’s working years. Learn how the women’s health gap affects the global economy on a country-by-country level.

EEOC’s final workplace harassment guidance is out!  This is the EEOC’s first comprehensive harassment guidance issued in over two decades.  

Here is the EEOC’s release: https://www.eeoc.gov/newsroom/eeoc-releases-workplace-guidance-prevent-harassment

Great news from the Biden-Harris administration.  They have announced new actions to advance pay equity on the 15th anniversary of the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act.  You can find the Fact Sheet at https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/01/29/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-announces-new-actions-to-advance-pay-equity-on-the-15th-anniversary-of-the-lilly-ledbetter-fair-pay-act/.

These are important steps toward continuing the advancement of fair pay in the United States.  The Committee hopes you will take a look at these.  We would also like to encourage the Local Organizations to do something with your Local for pay equity on March 12, 2024, which has been designated as National Equal Pay Day.

Jerri Evans,
BPW/FL Public Policy Chair