Voting is Public Health
Why voting matters for public health professionals and the communities they serve.
by Hannah Wente
As students, faculty and staff in the VCU School of Public Health, we’re part of a wide network of health care professionals working toward a healthier, more equitable future. And one important opportunity to impact that future is coming up soon: Election Day on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
According to the Association of Schools & Programs of Public Health, voting doesn’t just affect public health: Voting is public health. Your vote matters on multiple levels, affecting the health care system, your community and you individually.
Voting can change public health policies in important areas, like health care access, reproductive rights, mental health services, climate change, gun violence and LGBTQ rights. It also affects funding for resources and initiatives, like public health infrastructure, disease prevention programs and emergency response efforts.
On a local level, voting impacts our communities in Richmond and the Commonwealth. Our elected officials shape policies that affect employment, income, housing, education, environmental quality and food security – factors that can contribute to health inequalities.
Plus, voting is crucial for being involved in the community. Civic engagement itself is linked with better health outcomes.
Voting is your way to make your voice heard. It empowers you to influence decisions that might affect you and the issues that matter to you. Even though sometimes election season stress can occur, it’s crucial to stay engaged as individuals and as current or future public health workers.
Register to vote by:
- October 15 by 11:59 p.m. EDT online
- October 15 by mail (postmarked by)
- September 20 – November 2 in-person during early voting
- November 5 in-person on Election Day
Who can vote:
Most permanent Virginia residents who are U.S. citizens and 18 years of age or older can register to vote, barring certain restrictions.
Where to vote:
Find your polling place.
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