The article “Many Jewish voters will be impacted’ as Pa. primary falls on Passover” (March 25, TribLive) notes that the election will be held on the first day of Passover, one of the most sacred holidays celebrated in the Jewish faith. On the one day that voters may cast their ballots in person, many Jewish Pennsylvanians will have to choose between observing the requirements of their religion and exercising their basic right as citizens.
This is not fair. Imagine how Christians would feel if an election was scheduled for Christmas day! And, while Jews are affected this time, next time it could be another religious group since all major faiths celebrate holidays in the spring — Easter, Passover, Ramadan. The saddest thing is that this blatant act of discrimination is unnecessary and could easily be avoided.
Thirty of 50 states, both red and blue, have extended (“early”) voting, giving their citizens additional days to vote in person. This enables them to exercise their right to vote despite conflicts resulting from religious duties, work requirements, care-giving obligations or other personal challenges like transportation, disabilities or bad weather. Legislation enabling early voting addresses these issues and has been introduced in the Pennsylvania House. It should be taken up and passed swiftly by the Legislature.
Jeanette Trauth
Stephen Jurman
Penn Hills