For Independence Day, honor our democracy by preparing for this year’s election. Then, ask your family and friends if they are registered to vote at their current addresses.

This year, the League of Women Voters is committed to registering Maine residents to vote and providing the information they need to cast their votes wisely.

On Sept. 23, National Voter Registration Day, we will conduct registration drives across the state. In October, we will distribute our Easy-to-Read Voter Guide, containing information about candidates running for major office and seven referendum questions. Voter information is always available on our website: lwvme.org.

The first step toward having input about major issues is registering to vote.

After we pause Friday to mark our nation’s birthday, take a few minutes to check on your registration by calling your city or town clerk. If you are not registered, then do so at your clerk’s office any day during business hours or until polls close on Election Day.

You can also register by mail. Click on the Resources for Voters tab at eac.gov, fill out the National Mail Voter Registration Form online, print it and mail it to your clerk. If you are registering in Maine for the first time, include a photocopy of your driver’s license, utility bill or other document with your name and current address. Registration forms submitted by mail are due by the close of business Oct. 14.

Every election is important to ensuring that our laws reflect the values of all Americans. Celebrate America’s 238th birthday by updating your voter registration or registering to vote for the first time, and making a commitment to vote, thereby participating in the greatest democratic process in the world.

Barbara Kaufman

voter service chair, League of Women Voters of Maine

Freeport