FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media contact: Makenzie Morton, Outreach Coordinator | outreach@nbcit.org
National Black Cultural Information Trust, Inc. Releases Voter Advisory to Help Black Voters Plan Their Vote and Respond to Problems at the Polls
Part of the National Black Cultural Information Trust’s Black Voter Ready Campaign, the nonpartisan guide covers registration, the full ballot, voter rights, and what to do if polling places face threats, delays, or other obstacles. Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
Washington, DC – OCT. 19, 2026 – The National Black Cultural Information Trust, Inc. (NBCIT) today released a free, nonpartisan voter advisory as part of its Black Voter Ready Campaign to help Black voters get informed, make a voting plan, and know what to do if something goes wrong at the polls. The advisory is available now at nbcit.org/voter-advisory.
The advisory is designed to be read in minutes. It gives voters clear steps to take before Election Day and clear actions to take if they face long delays, a threat or evacuation at a polling place, or an attempt to turn them away.
“Our communities have fought for every ballot cast, and voters should not have to guess what to do when something goes wrong,” said Jessica Ann Mitchell Aiwuyor, Executive Director of the National Black Cultural Information Trust, Inc. “This advisory puts the essentials in one place so that people can plan, protect their vote, and help others do the same.”
What Voters Can Do Now
- Check your registration at Vote.gov. Deadlines and same-day registration rules vary by state.
- Preview your whole ballot at Vote411.org. Judges, sheriffs, school boards, and local measures often shape daily life more directly than national races.
- Make a plan: choose how, when, and where you will vote, know your state’s ID rules, and line up a ride, time off, and childcare. Bring a friend.
- Report problems to the Election Protection Hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683), even if you were able to vote. The Election Protection Hotline is administered by the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.
If Something Goes Wrong
- Threat or evacuation: Move to safety and call 911 if you feel unsafe. Ask how and where voting will resume, then call the hotline and your local election office.
- Turned away: Ask the reason, then ask for a provisional ballot and a supervisor.
- Long delays or broken machines: Stay in line. Anyone in line when polls close can still vote. Ask for a paper or provisional ballot, and do not leave without voting.
- Harassment or intimidation: Do not argue. Move away and tell a poll worker.
- Write it down: Note the time, place, and names. Fast reports can lead to extended voting hours.
The advisory also warns voters about common misinformation, such as false claims that the election date has changed or that people can vote by text or phone. Voters who are unsure should confirm with their local election office.
NBCIT encourages community organizations, congregations, campuses, employers, and news outlets to share the advisory with their audiences and to credit NBCIT. The full advisory and a printable version are available at nbcit.org/voter-advisory.
NBCIT is nonpartisan and does not endorse candidates or parties. The advisory is general information, not legal advice, and voting rules vary by state.
###
About the National Black Cultural Information Trust, Inc.
The National Black Cultural Information Trust Inc. provides news, information, and resources for the collective freedom of Black communities. NBCI Trust is committed to promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of African descendants from around the world. Learn more at nbcit.org.
Media Contact
Makenzie Morton | Outreach Coordinator | outreach@nbcit.org | nbcit.org