Faith and Democracy Voter Outreach Campaign

People of faith can be a powerful force for peace and justice in our communities, our nation, and our world.

Voting is part of that force.

That's why ICPJ is launching our Faith and Democracy campaign of nonpartisan voter outreach. We seek to encourage partner congregations in Washtenaw County to proactively engage in voter registration, education, and turnout; and to encourage area people of faith to consider how their religious teachings affect their vote, especially on issues of war and economic policy. ICPJ provides training, encouragement, resources, and tools to help area congregations in their voter outreach efforts.

The ICPJ Faith and Democracy campaign is entirely nonpartisan. We neither endorse nor oppose any candidate. Our voter outreach services are available to all voters without regard to political affiliation. All of our voter education is "issue education" and is based on nonpartisan statements issued by denominations, religious organizations, and faith leaders. Congregations can fully participate in the ICPJ Faith and Democracy campaign without fear of violating the separation of church and state.

What your congregation can do to get your members out to vote in November

Voter Registration:

• Hold a voter registration table after services
• Pass out voter registration forms during worship
• Phone bank your members to encourage them to register

Voter Education

• Host faith and democracy issue forums in your congregation
• Share nonpartisan voter resources with your congregation
• Host a candidate forum
• Discuss your denomination's stance on electoral issues
• Organize house parties to watch and discuss the presidential debate

Get out the Vote

• Make follow up calls to newly registered voters
• On the worship before the election, remind people to vote
• Phone bank all members to remind them to vote
• Provide rides to the polls and child care to people who need it.

What ICPJ can offer your congregation to assist voter outreach efforts

• Volunteer training for nonpartisan voter outreach
• Workshops on "Faith and Democracy: Why people of Faith should be engaged in elections," and "People of Faith and the War Economy"
• Voter registration and education materials and resources.
• Motivation and support to your congregation's volunteer leaders.
• Resources on legal framework for congregational electoral outreach
• References for other sources of information.