Irene Williams, Housetop, pieced "vote" quilt, Gee's Bend, circa 1975
The arts have often been used to showcase the value and importance, as well as the issues and discrepancies, of voting in America. Throughout our country's history, artists have created paintings, illustrations, and many other forms of art that convey the subject matter of voting. Often, these artworks reflect the sometimes complicated history of voting in our country, showing that for some, voting has been a hard fought fight. People have lost lives, either in service for our country to remain a free and democratic society, or in protest--for the fight for the right to vote. You can view several of these artworks at the end of this post.
As an election cycle is approaching with primaries and midterms, it is important that we all continue to value that voting in America is a fundamental right for all. It should be more than democrat or republican, liberal or conservative, male or female, black or white, young or old. It should be about respecting everyone’s right to have their voice heard, even if we don't all have the same voice. If we truly wish to live in a democracy, then this has to be a part of that wish. And while this may often seem unattainable in politics these days, we can still at least do our own part—and vote.
If you are unsure of local polling places, how to vote, or candidates in races, call your local clerk of courts, or ask your family, neighbors, friends, or coworkers. If you wish to do more, you can help drive people to the polls, help educate others on where to find voter information, or volunteer to babysit young children for someone you know while they vote. Listed below the following artworks, are some websites with helpful information about polling places, voter registration, and local races in your area. So be sure to practice your own “art” of the vote and make your voice heard. Go vote!
George Caleb Bingham, The County Election, 1852
Charly Palmer, Voting Line, 1999
Norman Rockwell, Which One, 1944
Henry Mayer, The Awakening, 1915, (Women's Suffrage Illustration)
Faith Ringgold, The Right To Vote, 2007, (Civil Rights and voter suppression)
The following is a poem entitled, Vote, by the famous poet, Nikki Giovanni. Click the link if you'd like to hear it read by Nikki herself. May her words inspire you.
Voting Information Websites:
Wisconsin:
National:
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