Protect Our Civic Traditions: A Call to Action for NC Community Leaders
The NC State Board of Elections has proposed a rule that would significantly restrict amplified sound near polling sites during voting hours. This could negatively impact longstanding community voter engagement traditions that Black communities, HBCUs, faith communities, and Greek-letter organizations have used for generations to encourage civic participation.
The NC State Board of Elections should prioritize policies that encourage voter engagement. Existing voter intimidation laws already ensure order at polling sites. Additional rules that unintentionally penalize community traditions could discourage civic participation and disproportionately impact Black voters.
For HBCU Leaders: Protect March to the Polls & Party at the Polls
HBCU leaders — we need you to help protect March to the Polls and Party at the Polls! The proposed rule could disproportionately impact HBCU campus mobilizations that have historically used these events to encourage student voter participation. It also creates unclear enforcement standards across polling locations.
Access the HBCU Sample Public Comment Bank for ready-to-use comment templates.
For Faith & Divine 9 Leaders: Protect Souls to the Polls & Strolls to the Polls
Divine 9 and faith leaders — we need you to help protect Souls to the Polls and Strolls to the Polls! The proposed rule could disproportionately impact faith-based and Greek-letter organization mobilizations that have historically used these events to encourage voter participation. It may also create unclear enforcement standards across polling locations.
Access the Divine 9 and Faith Sample Public Comment Bank for ready-to-use comment templates.
How You Can Take Action
Submit a public comment now through July 14. Share this information with your organization and community, and encourage others in your network to submit comments.
- Online Portal: NC State Board of Elections public comment portal
- Email: rulemaking.sboe@ncsbe.gov
- In-Person Public Hearing: 10 a.m., June 29, 2026 — Board Room, State Board of Elections, Dobbs Building, 430 N. Salisbury St., Raleigh, NC 27603
- Mail: Attn: Rulemaking Coordinator, P.O. Box 27255, Raleigh, NC 27611-7255 (Identify the specific rule being commented on.)
Your voice matters! Please submit a public comment to help safeguard our community’s civic engagement traditions and protect March to the Polls, Party at the Polls, Souls to the Polls, and Strolls to the Polls across North Carolina!
