Voting is a fundamental right, but for many people with disabilities or language barriers, casting a ballot can feel intimidating. Sonoma County is taking proactive steps to ensure every resident can participate in the democratic process through upcoming accessible voting workshops.

The county’s Registrar of Voters Office is hosting two critical workshops designed to empower voters who might face challenges during elections. The first workshop, happening on Wednesday, Oct. 1, will provide hands-on training for voters with disabilities, showcasing how to effectively use accessible ballot marking devices at local Vote Centers. This in-person session will take place from 11 a.m. to noon at the Registrar of Voters Office in Santa Rosa.

Recognizing the linguistic diversity of the community, the second workshop will be conducted online via Zoom on Tuesday, Oct. 14, from 6-7 p.m. This virtual session focuses on supporting voters whose primary language isn’t English. Attendees will learn about obtaining facsimile ballots in languages including Khmer, Tagalog, and Vietnamese, ensuring that language doesn’t become a barrier to civic participation.

Both workshops are free and open to the public, strategically timed ahead of the Nov. 4 special election. By providing these resources, Sonoma County is demonstrating a commitment to inclusive democratic engagement that empowers every community member to make their voice heard.

For those interested in joining the online workshop, registration is available through the county’s Zoom link. The webinar ID is 881 4928 7998, with a passcode of 854979.

These workshops represent more than just technical training, they’re about breaking down systemic barriers that historically have prevented full participation in our electoral process. By making voting more accessible, Sonoma County is helping to create a more representative democracy.