Safeguarding Democracy During the 2024 Election: A Community Action Guide

Leading up to the 2024 election season, we heard two trends emerge:  

1) Pro-democracy movements are much more prepared for the joys and challenges that elections can bring than in previous cycles and  

2) Some people, especially those newer to organizing for community safety, are expressing concerns about their safety, the safety of their communities, and the electoral process.  

We've created a simple, strengths-based election guide to support that preparedness and optimism and speak to people's fears and anxieties. We hope this guide will leave readers better able to: 

• Navigate the abundant resources available

• Feel safe and comfortable voting in person if that’s your preferred voting method 

• Understand and prepare for potential challenges to the electoral process 

• Respond swiftly, calmly, and collectively to potential threats and intimidation 

• Use your voice and skills in various ways to contribute to building an inclusive democracy and safeguarding our elections! 

This guide is for community leaders, members, and groups willing to take action to safeguard democracy and electoral processes, from getting out the vote to certifying results to the peaceful transfer of power. It offers practical knowledge, skills, and resources to help engage your community on and offline in pursuing a strong and just democracy. Western States Center primarily focuses on the Pacific Northwest and Mountain States, but you can apply strategies from this guide in red, blue, and purple regions nationwide across rural, suburban, and urban contexts.