October 25, 2024

Dear Student,

As we approach Election Day, we want to remind you of the importance of your voice and your vote. Each election presents an opportunity to influence the future of our communities, our nation, and the world. Your vote is your voice—make sure it’s heard! Engaging in the electoral process is a responsibility that shapes the issues we care about most.

Now is the time to take action. Whether you’re voting absentee, participating in early voting, or preparing for Election Day, your participation is vital. Below are important reminders and resources to ensure that you’re ready to cast your vote.

Voting Resources

Absentee Ballots: You should have received your absentee ballot by now. If you haven't, please contact your local election office or county clerk as soon as possible. To track your ballot, please check out Vote.org's Ballot Tracker Tools. To find out more information regarding contacting your local election office of county clerk, click here: AU Library Subject Guide: Request a Ballot by State. Please check your state’s rules and deadlines for getting ballots mailed back once completed.

Be a Strategic Voter: Research what’s on your ballot! Visit the AU Library Subject Guide or other reliable websites to prepare and learn about what’s on your ballot.

• Vote411.org is a great non-partisan site for comparisons on all races
• Ballotpedia.org is another high-quality non-partisan site for comparisons

Need Stamps? If you require stamps to mail your ballot, feel free to visit the Center for Leadership and Community Engagement (CLCE) in MGC 325 or the circulation desk at the AU Library to get free stamps and envelopes to mail off your ballot.

Want to Register to Vote in DC? If you live on-campus in a residence hall, at Frequency apartments, or in off-campus housing in DC and would like to register to vote in Washington, DC, here's how to do it. Same-Day Registration is available at all Vote Centers during the Early Voting period and on Election Day. You must bring proof of residency.

• Early Vote Centers: Oct. 28 – Nov. 3, 8:30 am - 7 pm. You may register and cast your ballot at any Early Vote Center.
• Election Day Vote Center: Nov. 5, 7 am - 8 pm. You may register and cast your ballot at any Election Day Vote Center.

Celebrate Your Vote: Once you've voted, stop by the CLCE to pick up your "I Voted" sticker and show your commitment to participating in our democracy!

If you need additional support or assistance with voting, please stop by the AU Votes Table in MGC October 29th, 11 AM – 1:30 PM or reach out to the AU Votes team at auvotes@american.edu.

Upcoming programs and events

“Voting & Coping” | October 29th, 12 – 2 PM, The Quad

• Join the Center for Well-Being Programs and Psychological Services on the Quad for some fun resources about relieving stress related to the Election.

“Election Based Stress” | October 30th, 12:15 – 1 PM, Cassell Studio B

• A collaboration session with the Center for Well-Being Programs and Psychological Services and RecFit on how to cope with stress during election season.

American University Unity Meals: Reflections and Connections Series
“The Day After Election Day” | November 6th, 6 - 8 PM, Claudio Grossman Hall American University Washington College of Law

• Join the AU community for a series of unity meals—events for reflection, remembrance, and learning about the challenges of our world and the importance of dialogue and unity in our lives. The second dinner will bring together our community on November 6, just after Election Day, to reflect on the importance of working to strengthen our democracy and build bridges across political divides. This event will offer a space of support, connection, and reflection. Registration required. Click HERE to RSVP.