Larp House Recommends: Voting (updated)

Woman megaphone, caption: VOTE Make Your Voice Heard

 

The year is 2022, and it is a world of darkness. The lives of marginalized people are threatened by the cruel and the violent. Unjust social structures grow increasingly brazen in their oppression. Systemic inequality runs unchecked.

Will you sit idly by as selfish monsters assault those less powerful? Or will you stand and be counted among those who demand a more considerate, nurturing, inclusive society? Your chance to play the most important role of all.

What

Democracy, a live-action exercise in civic responsibility for millions of participants

When

Tuesday, 8 November 2022

Where

At your local polling place

Registration

You can check and make sure you’re registered to vote with the Minnesota Secretary of State.

If you haven’t registered yet, it’s not too late. In Minnesota, you can register at the polls, but be sure to bring current proof of residence.

This event works better when you bring friends. Talk to your friends and neighbors and encourage them to attend this event! Sign up for get out the vote canvassing together!

Themes

Community change. Group decision making.

Play style

Play involves filling in lots of circles* on a piece of paper (like a White Wolf game, but different). Play may involve waiting in a line. Basic research beforehand will enhance the experience, allowing you to select candidates in minor races. (Review a sample ballot at the polling place finder site! Way less stress!)

Safety techniques include a secret ballot technique to protect you from harassment over your vote.

If you want to take your technique to the next level, consider volunteering for phone banking or street canvassing. Your preferred political party will be happy for the help.

Costuming

No costume required, although no one can stop you from showing up in your favorite cosplay. (Note that apparel endorsing a particular candidate is prohibited.)

Participants will be issued a sticker that can be optionally worn to more fully immerse themselves in the event.

Accessibility

The law requires your polling place to be accessible.

Lots of players will be looking for ride-shares to the venue. If you have the ability, it would be greatly appreciated if you can help someone catch a lift to event.

You can get discounted or free Lyft fare to the event.

Content Warnings

May involve having to make difficult choices, listening to politicians saying scary and/or bigoted things, and the nail-biting anxiety of waiting for results.


In 2016, the general election in the “safe state” of Minnesota came down to a margin of less than 2%. This year in Minnesota, there are many important races at the federal, state, county, and local levels. Please, do not make the mistake of thinking that your vote does not matter. Your vote counts and matters. Everything is at stake. You can do this.

Updated for 2022! Originally published 2018-10-25.

Graphic by Bo Lee, courtesy Power to the Polls

 

* Apologies to anyone whose ballots are technically little squares, or who never played a White Wolf game

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