Description
Book SynopsisThis timely, relevant text is a comprehensive compendium of critical information about voting in the United States. It frames voting as an integral aspect of social work practice and provides concrete suggestions for how students can increase their involvement in expanding voter participation by marginalized groups.
This book:
- Examines the current social and political context
- Introduces multiple perspectives on why voting matters
- Presents a brief history of voting rights in the United States
- Explains the nuts and bolts of campaigns and elections
- Discusses who votes and who doesn’t, how people vote, and why
- Describes voter suppression tactics and identifies obstacles facing low-turnout groups
- Highlights strategies to expand voter participation
- Provides concrete examples of how students can help maximize voter participation
- Explores how voter engagement intersects with social work at all levels of professional practice
The only social work textbook devoted entirely to the topic of voting, Promote the Vote: Positioning Social Workers for Action is the ideal supplement for classes in social welfare policy, policy practice, human rights, and social justice. Filled with research findings, practical information, and case examples, this book provides social work students and professionals with the knowledge, strategies, and tools to engage clients and their communities in the electoral process. With voting rights quickly becoming a flashpoint in the struggle for equity and justice, now is the perfect time for this valuable resource.
Table of ContentsChapter 1: The Context for Voter Engagement
The Social and Economic Context
The Political Context
Summary and Conclusion
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Chapter 2: Why Voting Matters
Voting Is a Human Right
Voting Is Consistent with Social Work Values
Voting Builds Political Power
Voting Benefits Individuals
Voting Benefits Communities
Summary and Conclusion
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Chapter 3: How We Got Here: A Brief History of Voting Rights
Early Voting in America
Voting Rights for African Americans
The Women’s Suffrage Movement
The Youth Vote
Additional Policies to Expand Voting Rights
Summary and Conclusion
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Chapter 4: Voting Processes and Procedures
Elected Officials
Political Parties
Registration and Voting
Political Campaigns
Presidential Elections
Congressional, State and Local Elections
Ballot Measures
Summary and Conclusion
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Chapter 5: Voting Patterns and Trends
Voter Turnout
Who Votes?
Why People Vote
How People Vote
Voting by Social Workers
Summary and Conclusion
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Chapter 6: Special Populations
People of Color
Naturalized Citizens and Linguistic Minorities
People in Poverty
People Experiencing Homelessness
Citizens with Felony Convictions
People with Disabilities
LGBTQ+ Voters
Survivors of Domestic Violence
Summary and Conclusion
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Chapter 7: Barriers to Voting
Structural Barriers
Intimidation and Suppression
Gerrymandering
Money in Politics
Summary and Conclusion
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Chapter 8: Expanding Opportunities
Registration Initiatives
Voting Initiatives
Summary and Conclusion
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Chapter 9: A Better Future
The Need for Change
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Strategies for Action
Developing a Culture of Voting
Summary and Conclusion
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Appendix I: State Election Information Websites
Appendix II: Helpful Resources
