Election Portal
2021 General Election
Did you know that there are about 260,000 LGBTQ adults living in Virginia? The 2021 General Election is fast approaching and Equality Virginia is committed to making sure that you have all of the information you need to register and vote on or before November 2nd, every single vote matters!
Elections are high stakes, and voting is one of the most important ways that we can shape the future of LGBTQ equality in Virginia and in our nation. While Virginia has recently made great strides towards protecting LGBTQ people from discrimination, but the work must continue. Our elected officials are in a position to improve – or harm – the lives of LGBTQ people. That’s why, when it comes to advancing equality, who we elect matters. Your voice will impact this election.
So, are you ready to vote? To help you prepare and make a voting plan, we’ve compiled all of the resources you need to be an informed voter:
Vote by Mail
Virginians can opt to vote by mail, and no reason is necessary. Request to vote absentee before October 22nd, and as long as your ballot is postmarked by Election Day and received by noon on the third day after the election your vote will be counted.
You can request your ballot online or fill out and submit a physical form to your local voter registration office by October 22nd by following the link.
Voting Early
Starting September 17th, any registered Virginia voter can show up to their local voter registration office or satellite voting center to vote early in person. The last day for early in-person voting is October 30th.
When voting early, be sure to take your ID or other acceptable documents to verify your identity.
Find Your Polling Place
If you plan to vote on Election Day, polls will be open to any registered Virginia voter from 6AM to 7PM and, as long as you’re in line by 7PM, you will be able to cast your ballot.
Locate your polling place well-ahead of November 2nd to help ensure a smooth voting process on Election Day.
Voting While Trans
For transgender and non-binary individuals, we recognize that Virginia’s historically strict voter ID laws may have impeded your ability to cast your ballot in-person. However, having an ID that doesn’t match your gender identity or presentation should not affect your right to vote. Voting is a critical component of our democracy and every American, regardless of their gender identity or gender expression, has the right to participate in our election process.
During the 2020 General Assembly session, Virginia became one of 14 states to repeal their strict voter ID law. Now, Virginians do not have to present a photo ID in order to vote. For transgender and non-binary individuals, this means that you can present any acceptable document to prove your identity if you’re opting to vote in-person.
For more information on voting as a transgender or non-binary person, visit TransForm the Vote for handy resources in English and en español.
Key Dates
- September 17– Early voting starts
- October 12 – Last day to register to vote
- October 22 – Last day to apply for a mail-in or absentee ballot
- October 30 – Last day to vote early in-person
- November 2– General Election Day! Polls open from 6AM – 7PM