We are now back around to a new election season and some of our congregations are asking how they can get involved in this year's fall election. Yes, there are rules around what you can do as a non-profit without risking your legal status. So this is your regular review of the rules and resources to help your congregation get connected and involved.

In general, you need to observe these basic rules:

• We may not advocate for or against specific candidates.
• We can advocate and educate on specific issues.
• We can hold voter registration drives and work in those efforts.
• We can work in voter turnout efforts.

UU World ran a great article recently about this topic, linking to a number of resources including the UUA's 2020 The Real Rules document. Your CER staff strongly recommend that your leadership review this article and the linked document before agreeing to participate in any election activities.

If your congregation knows what you can and can't do and you want to be involved, check out UU the Vote. UU the Vote engages people in voter registration, issue education, get-out-the-vote drives, voter protection, state leadership development, and more. On their website you can find trainings and resources, an event calendar to find events near you, join their regular webinars, and sign up for their newsletter. You can see all they have to offer on their Get Involved Page. You can participate in a phone bank from anywhere. Or you can knock on doors. There are all levels of activity as options.

Even if all you can do is get out to vote yourself, or encourage your family and friends to have a plan to vote, that's what we need in this time. Voting is a sacred act, and we all must work to make sure our values and voices are heard.

If you have questions or concerns please reach out to your CER Primary Contact, who can connect you with the appropriate folks.