At John’s Crazy Socks, we often talk about inclusion in the workplace, in schools, and in the media. But inclusion belongs in our civic life too, especially when it comes to voting. 

This week, my son John and I went to vote early in our local elections. It’s a tradition we’ve shared for years. When John was younger, he would come into the voting booth with me. Now, we go side by side, each casting our own ballot. 

John loves to vote. He treats it as a right, a responsibility, and, true to form, as a joyful occasion. 

“That’s What Citizens Do” 

John has never missed an election. Not once. Whether it’s a presidential race or a local election, he shows up. 

“I vote in every election,” John says. “That’s what citizens do. I want to be a good citizen. I want to have my voice heard.” 

John understands something we often forget: local elections matter. “It’s important to vote in town elections so that I have a say in how Huntington is run,” he told me. He’s right. The decisions made by local officials affect our roads, schools, safety, and whether our communities are welcoming and inclusive. 

Voting Prepared, Voting Proud 

John does his homework. He reads campaign flyers. He watches interviews. He asks thoughtful questions. He doesn’t ask who to vote for; he wants to understand the issues. He’s living his motto:With us, not for us. 

John doesn’t want anyone deciding for him. He makes his own choices. He plans his day around voting, walks into the polling place with his head high, and votes with a big smile on his face. Watching him vote is a reminder of what democracy looks like when we take it seriously  and joyfully. 

Inclusion Means Civic Participation 

When John casts his vote, he’s  flipping a narrative. He’s not only our co-founder and Chief Happiness Officer. He’s an informed, engaged citizen. And he’s showing what people with differing abilities can do. 

We say it often: inclusion is more than hiring. It’s more than representation in the media. It’s about making sure everyone has a voice in our communities and in the decisions that shape our lives. That means ensuring people with disabilities have access to the polls, know their rights, and feel empowered to vote—not just in theory, but in practice. 

Be Like John—Make Your Voting Plan 

If you haven’t made your voting plan yet, take a page from John’s book: