“A good Catholic meddles in politics, offering the best of himself, so that those who govern can govern.”
-Pope Francis
Your vote is an act of faith
What kind of country will we leave for those who come after us? That question is bigger than any political party. This November, our votes will help shape decisions that touch the lives of our neighbors: whether families can live with dignity, whether the vulnerable are protected, whether immigrants are treated with compassion, whether creation is cared for, and whether every person’s voice matters.
We believe voting is an opportunity to put our faith into action. Catholic Social Teaching calls us to uphold the dignity of every human person, pursue the common good, stand with those on the margins, and build a more just and peaceful world. These values do not belong to one political party. They call us to look beyond slogans, consider the consequences of public policies, seek truthful information, and ask difficult questions of those who seek our vote. Democracy depends not only on the choices we make, but on our willingness to make them. When we sit out an election, we leave decisions about our shared future to others. When we participate thoughtfully, we help give voice to people whose needs are too often overlooked.
Make your voice heard
Michigan’s midterm election is Tuesday, November 3. There is still time to make a plan:
- Vote early: Find your early voting location and hours at Michigan.gov/EarlyVoting. Early voting runs through November 1.
- Check your polling place and sample ballot: Visit the Michigan Voter Information Center.
- Still need to register? Eligible Michigan residents can register in person at their city or township clerk’s office through Election Day, with proof of residency.
- Voting by absentee ballot? Check your ballot’s status and return instructions through Michigan.gov/Vote. Do not wait until the last minute to return your ballot.
- Know where to report problems. The nonpartisan Election Protection hotline is 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683). Report suspected federal election crimes to the FBI. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Did you know?
In 1920, one vote in Tennessee helped secure the ratification of the 19th Amendment, prohibiting states from denying women the right to vote because of sex. It was a hard-won victory, decades in the making, earned through organizing, marches, lobbying and imprisonment. After the amendment passed, black Americans continued to fight for their voting rights, facing intimidation, violence and discriminatory laws. Through courageous protests, marches and years of determined activism, they helped pave the way for the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which strengthened federal protections. Their stories remind us that voting rights were fought for, not simply given. We honor their legacy by using our voices and our votes to help build a more just society.