Mayor Michelle Wu announced a collaboration between the City of Boston's Equity and Inclusion Cabinet, and Healing Our Land Inc. (HOLI) to launch the Ballots Behind Bars initiative. This program aims to improve education about voting rights and increase accessibility for eligible voters within Suffolk County's House of Correction and Suffolk County Jail. Wu highlighted the importance of giving every eligible voter access to the resources they need, stating, "Ensuring that every eligible voter has access to opportunity and resources is critical to ensuring that Boston is a city for everyone," according to a city press release.
The initiative targets many barriers that obstruct incarcerated voters from participating in elections, ranging from insufficient knowledge about the voting process to difficulties in obtaining and casting ballots. Ruthzee Louijeune, City Council President, expressed the critical nature of this partnership in breaking down these barriers, and in her words, "empowering these citizens to have a voice in our democratic process." Sheriff Steven W. Tompkins supported this sentiment, adding that every individual, whether awaiting trial or serving time for lesser crimes, should be able to practice their right to vote – a fundamental aspect of democracy.
Mariangely Solis Cervera, Chief of Equity & Inclusion, emphasized the overarching goal to end the disenfranchisement of incarcerated voters. HOLI will be a fundamental partner in this effort, providing education and supporting data collection on the voting accessibilities for those currently behind bars. It's stated that the organization will work directly within the jails to facilitate voter registration and civics programs.
Disparities in incarceration rates, which disproportionately affect marginalized communities, especially people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals are at the forefront of this initiative. Jullieanne Doherty Lee, of the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ+ Advancement, noted a troubling statistic that LGBTQ+ adults are incarcerated at three times the rate of the general population, emphasizing the need for action in this space. "Ensuring that incarcerated individuals have the right to vote is a step toward dismantling these inequities," stated Ashley Montgomery, Executive Director of the Office of Returning Citizens. Hamza J. Berrios, of DBBC echoed this sentiment, suggesting that empowering incarcerated people through the ballot is a cornerstone of rehabilitation and civic duty.
For those interested in learning more about the Ballots Behind Bars initiative or seeking involvement, the Equity and Inclusion Cabinet encourages reaching out through their provided contact information on the city's website.
