Across the country, women are reminding each other to cast their vote freely and privately—regardless of the political beliefs of their spouse or partner.
In a world where the political gender gap is growing as women become more liberal, a clever grassroots campaign is reminding women of a fundamental truth: Their vote is private. This guerrilla movement uses a simple yet powerful tool—Post-It notes—to reach women whose partners may disagree with their political choices.
The premise is simple: small, brightly colored notes discreetly placed in public spaces, like bathroom stalls, libraries, cafes, dorm buildings, workplace lounges, doctors’ offices and community boards. Each note carries the message that every woman has the right to cast her vote freely and privately.
“Woman to woman, your vote is private,” read one Post-It in a bathroom stall at the Minnesota State Fair, tapping into the pressure some women face to align their political beliefs with those of their spouse or partner.
When couples vote by mail, “what happens is the man and woman sit down to vote together,” said Democratic pollster Celinda Lake during a conversation at the DNC. “She’s intimidated that he’s got more information.”
Lake said it may be easier for women to vote their preference when voting in person. “Of course, we’re pushing vote by mail and early voting,” Lake continued, “because it increases democratic participation. But in doing that, we have to empower women to have their own way of doing things. One of the things to say to them is, ‘Vote on your own schedule’—i.e., Don’t sit down with the guy.”
@emmiegtiktoks Canvasing idea! Where will you put your sticky notes?! #kamalaharris #vote2024 #whitewomenforharris #harriswalz #harmreduction #fightracism #fyp #fypシ゚viral ♬ original sound – Emmie
While the Post-It campaign’s origins are unclear, it quickly gained traction on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Reddit. The campaign’s low-tech approach has also contributed to its success. By using everyday materials like Post-Its, the message is accessible, relatable and easily replicated. Anyone can join the movement, adding their own notes to the places where women are likely to see them.
Reminding women of the secrecy of their ballot, the campaign provides a subtle yet liberating message: In the voting booth, women have the final say.
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