Jackson Free Press

Too many physically challenged voters can't get to their polling place and inside to vote, says Mary Troupe, director of Mississippi's Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities. She described a situation a few years ago when she (a paraplegic) went to vote—only to find the doors locked. This issue has grown into a major concern as many citizens and politicians alike have started realizing that this society must accommodate the many types of people living in it. Previous elections might have missed out on many would-be votes due to inaccessibility.

Troupe believes Mississippi, which happens to have the second highest percentage of people with disabilities in the U.S., could really have an impact on Election Day if more disabled were actively voting. "The main task at hand is to provide the education on the whole system of voting to the disabled," Troupe said.

The Youth Leadership Conference in April 2003 for disabled children was aimed at educating students on the power of the vote. Those who were of age were then encouraged to register. "The great thing about the event was at the end of the day many of the parents who brought their children to be educated on voting also ended up registering," added Troupe who refers to the population of disabled Mississippians as a "sleeping giant that must be awakened."

The Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities hopes their brand-new PAC (political action committee) will promote state legislation to help ensure the that the disabled are enfranchised. Working together as one body, this PAC—gathering money from a coalition of disabled citizens, their families, organizations and advocates for the disabled—is lobbying for legislation to help citizens with disabilities live more comfortably within the economic mainstream of America. According to its Web site (mscoalition.com), the Coalition's primary concern is to encourage support from elected officials in Mississippi for federal funding to provide increased job opportunities and resources. The Coalition is urging compliance with the Help America Vote Act (see page 7). HAVA requires at least one disabilities-accessible voting station in every precinct in states accepting federal funds.

On July 24, the Jackson Medical Mall will celebrate the 13th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, hosting an event where students in special education can learn about voting and, hopefully, register before the end of the day. Call 969-0601 for info.