Disability Voting Rights Week

By: Andrea Chavarriaga*

I have recently been learning about Disability Voting Rights Week and how important it is for people with disabilities. This year, it will be September 14–18, 2026. The week is meant to help people learn more about the voting rights of people with disabilities and make sure voting is accessible to everyone. It is also a time to remind people that everyone should have the same opportunity to vote independently and privately.

Voting is an important part of being involved in our communities. People vote for leaders and on things that can affect their everyday lives. People with disabilities have the same right to vote as everyone else. However, voting can sometimes be harder due to various barriers.

For example, some voting places may be hard for someone who uses a wheelchair to get into. Some people may also have trouble reading the information, using the voting machines, or getting the help they need. These things can be barriers to voting. Voting should be set up so that everyone can participate in choosing who leads our community.

The theme for this year is “Be an Accessible Democracy Defender.” This is about helping make sure everyone has a fair chance to vote. You do not have to have a disability to help with this. Friends, family, teachers, and others can all help by learning about the barriers that can make voting harder and sharing that information with others.

There are many ways people can help during this week. People can help with voter registration events and help others learn how to register. They can also share information with friends and family or post about disability voting rights on social media. People can even educate and share information with local leaders about making voting places easier for everyone to use.

Another important thing is learning about barriers to voting. People can share their own experiences and explain what they may need when voting. Learning about these barriers can help others understand what should be changed. Things like ramps, clear signs, and voting machines that are easier to use can make a big difference.

Before learning more about this topic, I never really thought about how many things could make voting harder for someone with a disability. Something that seems easy to one person may be much harder or impossible for someone else. It made me realize how important it is to make sure everyone gets the same opportunity to vote independently and privately.

Disability Voting Rights Week is a good reminder that people with disabilities should not be left out. Everyone should have the chance to vote and participate in their community. By learning more, sharing information, and helping make voting easier, we can help make sure everyone gets that opportunity. Learn more about Disability Voting Rights Week: Disability Voting Rights Week – AAPD.

*Andrea is a sophomore at St. Brendan High School. She is volunteering at DIG to get community service hours.