ROC United Provides Employees Paid Time Off to Vote, Volunteer in Nonpartisan Efforts on Election Day

October 2020

There are just 20 days remaining until Election Day. With the clock ticking towards what may be the most important and consequential election of our lifetime, we want to ensure that eligible voters cast their ballots early or head to the polls safely on November 3, 2020.

That’s why we at ROC United are providing all our staff members with paid time off to vote and/or volunteer in nonpartisan engagement initiatives on Election Day. Workers shouldn’t have to choose between earning a paycheck and exercising their right to vote.

We are taking this action to ensure that our staff is able to participate in our democratic process towards a more just and equitable society. We are committed to help increase voter participation in our election. As we continue to fight for nearly 14 million restaurant workers nationwide, most especially during the coronavirus pandemic, we want to ensure that living wages and better working conditions remain a top priority during this election and into the next presidential administration.

Learn more about early and mail-in voting in your state. Check your voter registration status to make sure your registration is updated. And, beyond a shadow of a doubt, know your voting rights.

Nonprofit organizations, like ROC United, consist nearly 13 percent of our nation’s workforce—and, according to Ford Foundation, that makes up more than 20 million potential voters. If we all join together and vote—we and our communities will be a powerful force to be reckoned with on Election Day.

Now is certainly not the time for complacency. Let’s vote, get our voices heard, and build real power and leadership in a pivotal election that will determine the direction of our country for decades to come.

My sincerest appreciation for all your dedication and marvelous work!

In solidarity,

Dr. Sekou Siby