Letter to the Editor

Honor A Civil Rights Icon

“Vote.”

That admonition was included this July in the final message of John Lewis, the civil rights icon who was severely beaten and nearly killed by Alabama State troopers in 1965 as he and nearly six hundred others attempted to march from Selma to Birmingham to demand the right to cast a ballot.

We now have the privilege, as well as the obligation, to honor Lewis by participating in the Nov. 3 election.

However, since Colorado will continue its established practice of distributing mail-in ballots to all registered voters, most voting will be done by mail. The distribution of ballots will begin on Oct. 9, several weeks prior to the Nov. 3 election date. And since this process will place a heavy burden on our postal system, please return your ballot promptly, either by mail or by placing it in one of the many secure drop boxes located around the city. (Boxes in and near Park Hill include the north side of the Museum of Nature and Science in City Park, and Hiawatha Davis Recreation Center at 33rd and Holly.) You may also assist others by picking up their ballots and depositing them in a drop box or mailbox. The legal limit for this practice is 10 ballots.

However, it will still be possible to vote at a polling place on Tuesday, Nov. 3. You can register and vote on Election Day, with the proper identification, up until 7 p.m.

Important: it should be noted that while some have argued that mail-in voting is subjected to mass fraud, such claims are unfounded, and Colorado has a fine record of secure elections. Along with your ballot you will receive a blue book in the mail that includes an explanation of the items on the ballot with arguments for and against each measure.

May we all take the time and make the effort to honor John Lewis and participate in this vital election that will have significant consequences for our city, state, and nation.

Frank Tapy, Park Hill