With days until the election, Patagonia employees and grantees gathered virtually for a “Know Your Voting Rights” training with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). The nearly 100 attendees walked away with information on how to arrive at the polls without impediment, cast their ballot free from intimidation, and trust their vote will be counted as cast and not discarded. They also received instructions on how to ensure others can do the same.

In an election season that has been rife with challenges to election integrity, this initiative is part of a broader effort in which the ACLU is equipping more than 100 businesses with nonpartisan, actionable information to increase voter confidence and participation for their employees and customers. The goal: to help their audiences of eligible voters cast their ballots and know what to do if any issues arise at the polls.

This election cycle has been fraught with misinformation, attacks on voting procedures, and threats that could keep voters away from the polls. At a time of such elevated tensions, corporations can be a clear, steady voice that cuts through the noise. Businesses can bring clarity to this confusing atmosphere by providing credible resources to help their audiences know how to check their voter registration status, whether they need to bring an ID to the polls, if they can vote early, and what their rights are at the polls—ensuring a smooth experience at the ballot box and strengthening our democracy in the process.

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