Current events (like a global pandemic) have changed just about everything in 2020 and the November election is no different.

At least 621,765 Asian American voters who have cast their ballots so far did not vote in 2016. That’s huge and we expect more to come as voters continue to mail their ballots and vote in-person. With increased security measures around verifying absentee ballots, we anticipate that the votes in this election may take longer to count than usual. 

That’s why we encourage you to use “election season” to help voters understand that the results of this election may require patience so election officials can take the time to make sure every vote is counted and every voice is heard.

We’ll be sending out tips and reminders every day this week to make sure you have the information you need to cast an empowered vote. Including this video with Tou Ger Xiong and Doua Moua on knowing your rights.

Know Your Rights

While voting roadblocks exist – intentionally and unintentionally – getting registered, making a voting plan, voting and understanding your rights as a voter can help us overcome voting barriers.

There is nothing partisan about educating voters and empowering them to participate in the electoral process. It’s up to you to make sure you know your voting rights.  

To help, we’ve created translated resources to make sure our communities know their rights. This includes several videos and language resource pages:

• English
• 選舉資料 (繁) (Chinese, Traditional)
•  选举资料 (简) (Chinese, Simplified)
• THÔNG TIN BẦU CỬ (Vietnamese)
• 투표와 관련된 정보 (Korean)
• IMPORMASYON SA PAGBOTO (Tagalog)

Some reminders when voting: 

• If you are in line when polls are supposed to close, stay in line. You still have the right to vote.
• If you are voting in-person and make a mistake on your ballot, ask for a new one.
• If the machines are down at your polling place, ask for a paper ballot.
• Check to see if your state requires an ID or official documentation to vote. Not every state has voter ID laws. If you are unsure it is always best to bring an ID or documentation when you vote.
• If you see misinformation or disinformation online or on social media make sure to report it. If you aren’t sure, double-check all your information with your state election board (visit apiavote.org/learn for more resources). Don’t engage with bad information. Instead, share correct information and inform your peers and your audiences.
• If your citizenship, criminal record or any other qualifications are questions, immediately call our hotline at 1-888-API-VOTE (1-888-274-8683).

Click here for access to voter guides in multiple languages.

Click here to see videos in English, Chinese, Korean, Tagalog and Vietnamese on your voting rights.