Voting is a constitutional right, and high voter turnout is essential for a representative and functioning democracy. However, in this era of aggressive partisan politics, for many the act of voting has become fraught. Casting a vote can be even more challenging if not impossible due to work commitments. Election Day is "no holiday."
RPJ Partner Helen D. (Heidi) Reavis conceived and has partnered with RPJ client and fellow Emmy and Peabody Award-winning Engel Entertainment to produce a compelling short video encouraging voting and civic engagement titled "Work from Home to Vote from Home," spreading the word to millions about the importance of voting and encouraging employers to be flexible, accommodate their colleagues' voting needs, and allow reasonable work adjustments for voting and civic engagement.
In addition to providing resources and information on voting procedures, polling locations, and any relevant deadlines, Ms. Reavis offers several options employers may utilize in order to encourage voter participation. One possibility is to modify business hours on Election Day; another is to offer paid time off for voting and civic engagement; yet another is to simply allow colleagues to work from home, to vote from home. This employer flexibility can facilitate colleagues' visit to the polls, which can be difficult and time consuming, and enable them to cast their ballot without affecting their productivity or pay.
By making these small adjustments, employers can help to ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to make informed decisions and cast their ballot. Taking such steps also demonstrates a direct investment in our democracy.
To view and share this informative video, read more here. Let's make a difference, one vote at a time.
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