Events and Updates

Promote the Vote California Update

June 2025

“Summer of Celebration and Education!”

2025 is flying by fast! Summer is already here, and with it comes one of the most popular celebrations of the year – Independence Day! On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, which declared the original thirteen colonies free from the rule of Great Britain, thus marking the beginning the representative democracy that lives on through today in what is now the United States of America.

The fight for an equitable democracy did not, however, stop with a declaration of freedom. Democracy in America relies on the citizens of the country to engage civically and exercise their right to vote in local, statewide, and federal elections.

Did you know California has a Voter Bill of Rights that outlines what rights you have as a registered voter? This bill of rights helps create an equitable environment for all citizens to complete their civic duty at polls! As you celebrate Independence Day this year, take some time to educate yourself on your rights as a voter, which include:

• The right to vote if you are registered to vote
• The right to vote if you are registered voter even if your name is not on the list
• The right to vote if you are still in line when the polls close
• The right to cast a secret ballot
• The right to get a new ballot if you have made a mistake
• The right to get help casting your ballot
• The right to drop off your completed vote-by-mail ballot at any polling place
• The right to get election materials in a language other than English
• The right to ask questions to elections officials about election procedures
• The right to report any illegal or fraudulent election activity

Visit our Voter Bill of Rights to view the full breakdown of your rights as a voter and educate yourself as well as your friends and family on what their rights are!

Did you know the California Secretary of State’s Promote the Vote California Program has a podcast? “This is Promote the Vote, the Podcast” is a podcast that focuses on civic education, voting engagement, and equity in California communities. Season one is available here on our website - listen to it now wherever you get your podcasts to hear why community leaders across California know the significance of every vote on the ballot. Season two is coming soon and will be out in late Summer!