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Because I work and take care of myself independently, many people don’t realize that I have hidden disabilities that make it hard for me to do anything beyond a regular work day. When I have something extra to add to my schedule — like a medical appointment, errand, or socializing with friends — I must wait for a day off or risk compromising my health.
Because of my health challenges, voting in person can be difficult. A couple of years ago, my job required a challenging commute that caused strain to my health. I was fatigued and in pain every day, and I knew there was no way I could add in-person voting to my schedule.
Thankfully, I had the option to use an absentee ballot to cast my vote. Without that as an option, I would have had to miss work to have the energy to vote in-person or been unable to vote altogether.
I am a hard worker and taxpayer and am committed to making my community better. I am outraged that Question 1 would restrict absentee voting and threaten my ability to vote.
Although I try not to draw attention to my disabilities, I feel the need to say something now. More than one in four Americans live with disabilities and anyone can become disabled. Don’t we all deserve the right to keep voting, even if our circumstances change?
Please help me keep my ability to vote no matter what challenges I face from my disabilities. Vote “no” on Question 1 this fall!
Ivy Moser
Portland
