By Shaunise Day
Next week, on Nov. 6, we have the chance to let our voices be heard by voting for our elected representatives and community referendums. As American citizens, we all have a civic duty to vote, and the stakes are high in this midterm election year. Some people may feel that their vote does not matter or that midterms aren’t important. But voting is essential to our democracy, and real change will only start when you let your voices be heard by showing up and voting. Whether you are voting early or at the polls, you have the chance to make a difference. Let’s get out the vote for this election year. Your voice has power when you vote.
The midterm elections include elections to federal offices and may determine which political party will control each chamber of Congress for the next two years. All 435 seats in the United States House of Representatives and 35 of the 100 seats in the United States Senate will be on the ballots this year. (House Representatives are elected to two-year terms, and Senators are elected to six-year terms.) We the people elect our officials to Congress. In addition, you may be able to vote in many state and local elections. Before heading to the polls, spend a little time researching the measures, propositions, and candidates you plan to support. For more information on what’s on your ballot, go to Vote411.org.
Protecting Our Profession
During this important midterm election year, we have a chance to establish and build relationships with new members of Congress. Behind the scenes, our NCRA PAC Governing Board is advocating on behalf of every member in the court reporting, captioning, and legal video professions. When it comes to legislative issues, it is important that we continue to educate our lawmakers on why our work matters. We must continue to push our agenda on Capitol Hill. For the lawmakers who are in support of protecting our professions, our NCRA PAC works closely at monitoring and contributing to their campaigns.
Your donations to the NCRA PAC are important for this reason. We have a lot of critical issues on the table within our profession. The number one issue is the shortage of reporters that we are experiencing nationwide. Together we can take the necessary steps to rebuild this wonderful profession, but to do so, we need the support and participation of every NCRA member. I am asking you to roll up your sleeves and do your part by getting involved. Now is your chance to be a part of the change that the court reporting and captioning industry is seeking by voting in your local and state elections. Also consider contributing to NCRA PAC. Visit NCRA PAC for more information.
Want to get even more involved? Plan ahead for NCRA’s Legislative Boot Camp coming to the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area from May 5-7, 2019. This event offers training in advocating for your profession, speaking with legislators, creating effective campaigns, and more.
