November 1, 2024

Guidance for Religious Leaders at the Polls

Download

Religious leaders across the country are lifting their voices to call for a free, fair, and peaceful election season. Many of them are preparing to serve as “poll chaplains” or “peacekeepers” at polling locations – ensuring a safe, positive experience for voters, and to advocate for a free, fair, and safe election. These volunteers help to ensure that eligible voters are able to cast their ballots without fear and without interruption, and they are trained in de-escalation techniques to diffuse potential tense situations that may arise at polling locations. The relationships between peacekeepers and law enforcement can be complicated, and every community is different. This document seeks to provide concrete guidance for how religious leaders can coordinate effectively with law enforcement to ensure that voters are safe when they cast their votes this fall.