I love filling up a travel mug and hitting play on my election anthem playlist as I drive out to canvass on a crisp October day. I find the mixture of fall colors and participating in democracy fills me with joyful energy. Maybe you relate. However, in the final weeks before a general election many people -especially campaign staff and candidates who’ve been working steadily for months- are feeling fatigued.
Either way, this post is for you! Read on for ideas about how to spread civic joy, recharge yourself and your team for GOTV and election day, and free e-day resources.
- More cowbell! I use a bright blue cowbell to quiet a rowdy crowd for programming, congratulate staff and volunteers as they hit goals and more. It’s a goofy tool with an important purpose; instigating civic joy. Celebrating victories -even little things such as completing a GOTV turf- boosts morale and interrupts the stress, monotony and fatigue of October on a campaign.
- Dance it out. Build playlists for GOTV, election day or election night with your team. Use them for a physical activity break/10 minute dance party midway through a call-time shift, or create a calming vibe when things get too intense. Here’s a collaborative Election Day playlist our team created.
- Huddle up. When you gather your team before shifts or actions to share important information always include aspirations (the goals for the day/action) and affirmations (e.g. why their work matters, progress toward goals, recent successes). Huddle again afterward to thank them and celebrate what was accomplished and why it matters. Use that cowbell, kazoo, or cheer!
- Support volunteers and staff at the polls. Election-day volunteer-care is a terrific assignment for folks who aren’t able to work at a poll site or canvass. These volunteers can deliver food and water to volunteers at the polls, replenish their campaign supplies, and stand in to provide a break, ensuring your team knows they are appreciated and is well supported.
- Display your civic joy. Open enthusiasm for democracy is disarming and charming, especially at a time when politics often puts people on the defensive. A small dose of silliness -my sequined American flag baseball cap or unicorn costume, for example- can help you have positive interactions with those you approach, whether during GOTV or at the polls. Share your civic joy pics with us on socials using #LeadMoCivicJoy #JoyToThePolls
- Rest and recharge. All humans need adequate sleep, nourishing food and water- especially superheroes who are fighting for democracy. Basic self-care is an essential part of being effective in the important work you are doing, and making it sustainable for the long haul. You can be a leader in encouraging your team to practice self-care, too.
- Put down your screen and complete the stress cycle. The final weeks of the campaign can be very stressful, and social media can amplify that. Being constantly stressed is exhausting and gets in the way of enjoying your life and being effective in your work. According to the Doctors Emily and Amelia Nagoski, there are seven simple ways you can complete the stress cycle so that the it doesn’t stay trapped in your body; move for 20-60 minutes; breathe using deep, slow breaths; positive social interactions- even with strangers; laughter-especially deep belly laughs; get some affection- hug or speak with a loved one; have a good cry; or do something creative.
- Prepare for election day. An effective campaign prepares for election day by supplementing its plan with information and tools for best and worst case scenarios. Some examples:
- a written election-day plan that includes a timeline and responsibilities
- plans for volunteers, volunteer managers, and other staff that include campaign contacts, an outline of the day, safety and de escalation tips, points of contacts in case of emergencies or media inquiries, and legal guidance around electioneering at poll sites
- information on the Missouri Voter Protection Coalition, which officers resources and operates on Election Day in case voters are unable to exercise their right to vote.
- Celebrate safely. Election night gatherings are often not given much thought; there’s too much urgent work to be done. We encourage you to consider safety protocols as you plan your election night celebration. How will you publicize the event and collect RSVPs?? How can you maximize participant safety at the event? Check out this event safety checklist from our friends at Democracy Security Project (DSP).
Beth Low Smith (she/her)
Executive Director