Civics 101: Empowerment through Education
Sections
Voting Introduction
Voter Registration Information
Election Information
Civics 101: Voting
Voting is one of the most important ways people participate in democracy. This guide explains, in simple terms, how voting works in the United States—and why it matters.
❋What Is the Right to Vote?
The right to vote is a fundamental part of U.S. democracy—but it is structured in a unique way.
Is the right to vote in the Constitution?
The Constitution does not explicitly grant a general right to vote
Instead, it protects voting by prohibiting discrimination
The Constitution protects against exclusion, rather than guaranteeing a single universal right to vote.
Key Amendments
24th
26th
Amendment
15th
Amendment
Amendment
Amendment
“The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged... on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.”
19th
“The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged... on account of sex.”
“The right of citizens... to vote... shall not be denied... by reason of failure to pay any poll tax or other tax.”
“The right of citizens... eighteen years of age or older... to vote shall not be denied... on account of age.”
How Do You Register to Vote?
Registration is required before you can vote in most elections.
Requirements
- U.S Citizen-Meet State residency rules
-At least 18 years of age
Registration
- Online-By mail
-In person
Even eligible voters must complete registration—this is part of access. Make sure to stay updated on your state’s registration requirements.
How Elections Work
Elections are run by states and local governments.
Types of elections:
There is no single national voting system—rules vary by state.
- Primary elections
- General elections
- Local, state, and federal
Did you know?
Key Voting Laws
Voting Rights Act of 1965
National Voter Registration Act
Help America Vote Act
prohibits racial discrimination
expands access
improves election systems
Federal laws create baseline protections, but states still control most voting rules.