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It is a Jewish imperative to make our voices heard in civic matters. A midrash teaches, “if a person sits in their home and says to themselves, ‘What have the affairs of society to do with me?’… they destroy the world.’” (Midrash Tanchuma Mishpatim 2:1) We are called to take action regardless of whether or not we are personally impacted by harm.

This election season, our rights as LGBTQ+ Jews and the health and safety of our loved ones are on the ballot. Take meaningful action with Keshet and write letters with us! Writing personalized, handwritten letters to voters is one of the most effective ways that you can help increase voter turnout and strengthen our democracy. Whether you are a congregation, a community leader, or someone wanting to engage your family and friends, we all have a role in voter outreach, and can invite others to do this work with us

Keshet is partnering with Vote Forward, a nonpartisan organization that works with grassroots groups to encourage people in swing states to vote. Click here for step-by-step instructions on writing letters to voters.

What letters are we writing?

• Printed-out official form letters, customized for each voter, available through the Vote Forward website
• Nonpartisan with no mention of candidates
• Filling out the official form letter customized for each voter
• Personalized with a note from a volunteer
• Letters are mailed in late October; parties can be hosted anytime before October 30th
• Positive messages, including personal stories
• Can mention LGBTQ+ equality specifically, for example: “I vote becau
  se I want a brighter future for my LGBTQ+ community, and this is one way I make my voice heard.”

Here are additional resources to support the writing process:

• What should I write?
• Building your personal story

Keshet wants to support you in engaging your community in letter writing!

Here is a draft email for the host to invite attendees:

Subject: Join Us for a Letter Writing Session to Protect LGBTQ+ Rights!

Dear {NAME},

As Jews, we must make our voices heard in civic matters. A midrash teaches, “if a person sits in their home and says to themselves, ‘What have the affairs of society to do with me?’… they destroy the world.” Especially this election season, when LGBTQ+ rights are on the ballot, we are called to act. Join us for a letter-writing session with Keshet to take meaningful action!

What: Writing personalized, nonpartisan letters to voters

Why: To advocate for LGBTQ+ equality and strengthen our democracy

When: {Date} at {Time}

Where: {Location}

Writing personalized letters to voters is one of the most effective ways to increase voter turnout – your participation can make a real difference!

Please respond to this email to RSVP.

Best,

{YOUR NAME}

If you would like more support engaging your community in getting out the vote, reach out to [email protected].