Homeless vote essays

Homeless vote essays Los Angeles social advocates, who were the first in the nation to submit homeless shelters as polling place, are working to increase the numbers of homeless and low-income voter who vote. They hope to register 5000 new voters and plan extensive voter education and mobilization drives before Nov. 2. In California, several ballot initiatives are particularly compelling to homeless and low-income individuals. According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, voter registration drives show that about 60% of homeless people identify themselves as Democrats, 20% as Republicans and 20% as independents. The overall number of homeless people appears to be growing. Census data from 2000 show that homeless and low-income individuals are the least likely to register to vote and the least likely to turn out at the polls, but they are surprisingly well informed about local, national and even international events. Los Angeles registration drives have been a model for other cities for concentrated homeless population. Homeless people have the right to vote, and hope to register hundreds of them for this year's elections, to make sure their voices are heard on social issues and to encourage them to participate actively in society. As an example of how homeless people could make a difference by voting, 2000 Florida presidential election results, in which W. Bush beat Al Gore by only 537 votes to win the presidency. By exercising their right to vote, it makes them feel like they are part of a community, whether they are living at the LAX or one of the downtown bridges. ...