2 Chainz is teaming up with Michelle Obama’s When We All Vote initiative to help those who were formerly incarcerated understand their voting rights.
“As you know, or may not know, me as well as many peers of my age and where I’m from have been incarcerated maybe once or twice in their lifetime,” he said in the YouTube clip. “And for those of you that have been through those unfortunate circumstances, I would like to notify you about some of the things and give you some real clarity about voting and your rights.”
He then went on to talk about how the laws vary from state to state. “So basically, it just depends on what state you live in,” he said. “Each state has different laws. If you live in Maine, Vermont or D.C., you never actually lose your rights to vote, even while being incarcerated.”
However, in at least 20 different states, an ex-felon would have to pay outstanding fines or restitution before their voting rights can be restored. In states such as Hawaii, Nevada, Colorado and New York, inmates are not allowed to vote while incarcerated, but their rights are immediately restored upon release.
“I really feel like this election matters more than any other election of our lifetime. I wanna do my part to spread that information because I know many people feel like their voice doesn’t matter or their vote doesn’t count, or they don’t even have the opportunity to do so,” 2 Chainz continued.
“So, I feel like we’re spreading this small message can hopefully reach somebody out there that [doesn’t] think they have the chance and the opportunity, to take this opportunity to vote November 3,” he concluded.
If you need to register to vote or check your eligibility, visit the When We All Vote website here. Check out 2 Chainz’s video below.