Growing up in a politically active family, the importance of democracy was ingrained in me from an early age. My parents were staunch advocates for civic engagement, and dinner table discussions often revolved around local and national politics. This early exposure sparked my lifelong commitment to participating in the democratic process. Voting has been a non-negotiable part of my life since I turned 18, a tradition I’ve upheld without fail.
Throughout my career I have witnessed the power of individual and collective voices. I learned it’s not just about individuals casting a vote; it’s about relentless advocacy and the belief that every letter to a legislator, every phone call, and every vote counts. This is why I am so passionate about ArtsVoteOhio.org.
I have worked in the Ohio Statehouse as well as in the higher education and business sectors. Now working in the arts, I see a strong synergy between creativity and democracy. Artists and arts organizations excel at advocacy, often using their platforms to champion social and political causes. The arts have a unique ability to reflect societal values and inspire change, making them a powerful force in democratic engagement.
With the relaunch of ArtsVoteOhio.org we hope to activate this creative and vocal base to support voting rights and encourage voting throughout Ohio. We’ll do this by sharing the voices and images of Ohio artists, empowering individuals and organizations with resources for advocacy and voter registration, fostering community engagement through news and activities—all to drive voter turnout among creative sector workers this fall and into the future. Sign up today to stay connected to our efforts.
I have seen firsthand time and again the power of grassroots advocacy and our collective voices—and it doesn’t take millions and millions of dollars. A favorite recent example was in 2023 when the Columbus Metropolitan Library successfully ran a campaign to pass their 1.5 additional continuing levy—even when there was no money for television or print ads. They did it through the sheer power of supporters talking to others, using emails, social media, yard signs and other grassroots tools.
Never discount the power of sharing with others why you support an issue or candidate. I plan to make sure I have at least one conversation with someone every day between now and the election.
And most importantly, check your voter registration status on the Ohio Secretary of State Voter Search site. If you have moved or not voted in four or more years, your registration may no longer be valid. Recent news articles state that nearly 160,000 Ohio residents’ registrations will be purged this year. The deadline to update your voting information is Oct. 5, 30 days before the election. Take five minutes now and make sure your voice and your choice are heard on Nov. 9.
See you at the polls!
The voting-inspired artwork used in the in graphic is by Maria Carluccio.
