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Why Reading, Berks County & Why PA?: Berks County, especially in areas like Reading, the 4th largest city in PA, has a rapidly growing Latino population and other diverse communities that are often underrepresented in the electorate. Registering and getting out the vote of Democratic voters in these areas can help mobilize voices that traditionally align with Democratic values but may not be fully engaged in the political process.
Berks County Democratic voter turnout will impact the results in the key battleground state of Pennsylvania. Registering likely Democratic voters and getting them to turn out is one of the most impactful ways to increase Democratic support, secure Pennsylania’s 19 electoral college votes, retain Senator Bob Casey’s senate seat and help retain and win state legislative races in November.
Language Skills: Our focus will be on Reading with a significant Spanish speaking population. Spanish language skills are helpful but are not requred to canvass in Reading and Berks County. We will try to offer bi-lingual (English/Spanish) volunteers canvassing turfs with higher concentrations of Spanish speaking prospects.
Housing Options: We will endeavor to provide you with accomodations with local volunteers in the Reading area if you're coming from out-of-town and will prioritize housing for those making longer multiple day commitments.
Without Housing: If you live in the area, are staying with friends, or just want to rent your own place, you can still work with us!
When: From September 13th through election day, Nov 5. Weekends and holidays are particularly important but volunteers will also be welcome and can be productive weekdays. We'll be participating in the Weekend of Action, September 28-29.
What: We will knock on doors of registered Democratic voters, selected independents and in some cases unregistered voters. The voter registration deadline in PA is October 21st and until then, one focus of our efforts will be to reach unregistered voters. After the voter registration deadline we will follow up with voters to get-out-the-vote (GOTV) in support of the Harris/Walz, Bob Casey and other Democratic candidates' campaigns.
Our Expectations of Participants: Peak canvassing hours are Saturdays and Sunday afternoon/early evenings. There will also be canvassing and other opportunities on weekdays. We've found that we become more skilled with practice, and encourage you to consider staying in Reading for several days. There will be orientation and Q&A sessions before every shift and de-brief sessions upon return to the campaign field office.
Cancellation Policy: Please give 7 days notice if you need to change your plans.
Transportation (at your expense): Depending on where you're coming from, some carpool options may be available but we prefer that you bring a car if possible.
Training:
How to Register Voters in Pennsylvania: There's a Swing Blue Alliance recording of How to Register Voters in Pennsylvania here. Passcode is 5N4t&rB1
Swing Blue Alliance Canvassing 101: There’s a recording of Canvassing 101 here. (Passcode: 0#9NqZ$e)
Sept 17 & Oct 15: Field Team 6. Learn to Register Voters in PA (on Zoom) RSVP
Get in touch with us: Write to ReadingPA@SwingBlueAlliance.org
Richard, Lori, Sarah, Rachel
