Get Out the Vote. Yes, You.

For many of us, the presidential campaign season is hard not to pay attention to. It is not just great theater, but it is part of the rhythm of the seasons. Often, the debates, the gaffes, the verbal attacks and counter-attacks can be compelling to watch.

Of course, the noise is not the most important thing. At least in theory, the candidates should be presenting ideas and positions that allow us to choose among competing plans for what we think is best for our country and our people.

The problem is that the noise increasingly is the only thing that captures public attention. It is no wonder that we can lose sight of the fact that elections and voting matter. That’s a huge problem — especially for those who get turned off by the intense partisanship of our process. In the last presidential election cycle more than 60 percent of those eligible did not vote. In 2014, the New York Times called the turnout – the lowest in more than 70 years — abysmal. 

For a democracy built on representation, that’s a problem.

The good news is we can do something about it. Yes, you and me. Those of us who aren’t directly involved in the campaigns or their media coverage still have avenues to affect change. 

That is why we've signed onto a pledge to support the principles of the Bipartisan Policy Center. We are joining with Starbucks, The Boys and Girls Clubs of America and the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to encourage our associates across the United States to participate in the electoral process and to support the idea that companies and organizations have a responsibility to encourage engagement in the electoral process.

For our company, that means we encourage voter registration throughout the campaign season. We provide information on key dates and we ensure managers provide flexibility for associates to vote. On Election Day, we offer administrative pay to our headquarters associates who volunteer to take on the critical job of working at the polls so they don’t have to take a vacation day. We were founded in our nation’s capital, so our commitment is a natural fit.

We – and the BPC principles — are very clear that our encouragement is entirely for voting and participation, not for any specific agenda. We understand that voting is an individual, voluntary choice so we want to give our associates enough information and latitude to participate in whatever way they choose.  As someone who has voted for candidates from each of our principal political parties, this is an easy and comfortable place to be.

This is an ambitious idea that really can make a difference. We are looking forward to learning more from our partners also taking the BPC pledge and bringing along other companies, non-profits and partners. 

When the choice is a difficult one for many, we should make sure we encourage each other to at least make a choice and vote.

What about your workplace? What else can we do to support the democratic process?

Related Links
Join the conversation on Twitter @MarriottIntl #EngageUSA
Follow me and other travel insiders on LinkedIn at Overheard@Marriott 
Companies Encourage Employees to Register, Vote and Volunteer 
USA Today: Marriott & Starbucks back bipartisan boost