In Macon, Georgia, the poverty rate exceeds 25%, more than double the state and national averages. At Mother's Nest, a local organization that provides assistance to needy mothers, Executive Director Sabrina Friday strives to raise awareness about the importance of voting, especially at the local level.
At a meeting at Mother's Nest, Friday addressed a group of single mothers, grandmothers, and some men, highlighting the importance of civic duty despite the challenges families face. She narrated the story of a mother in precarious conditions who, hungry and homeless, does not see elections as a priority.
Dr. Tiffany Hall, during a dental consultation at Mother's Nest, witnessed the struggles of attendees to access preventive care. Thirty-six-year-old Tynesha Haslem expressed her interest in these issues. However, the reality in Atlanta and its suburbs contrasts with that of Macon, showing enthusiasm for electoral participation.
In Bibb County, interviews suggest that voters living in worse conditions do not feel motivated by the historical nature of certain candidacies. Despite the efforts of organizations and political campaigns, low-income voters are often underrepresented at the polls.
The electoral campaign in Georgia seeks to reach the most marginalized voters, especially through digital and in-person methods. Despite the efforts, the difficult economic situation of many citizens makes them feel disillusioned with the political system and the effectiveness of their vote.
The lack of representation and urgent economic issues are realities that the poorest voters face in Georgia. The pandemic and economic improvement do not always reach all sectors of the population, presenting challenges in electoral participation and creating meaningful change for those who need it most.
