“Voting has always been important to me. But now that I have MS, I have found that it is even more important because so many people have this basic right taken away from them — because they’re unable to physically get to a polling location.” Though 2016 may not be the first year Karl Schiller has cast a ballot, it’s significant because it was his first year participating in a local caucus. Unlike a traditional primary, a caucus requires movement from table to table in order to discuss different issues and hear different points of view. Of the experience, Karl says, “the caucus was great and so many of my neighbors participated. But few accommodations were made for people with disabilities. Navigating through tables with a cane proved to be a challenge, and the tables themselves lacked adequate seating.”
As an MS activist, Karl enjoyed the caucus but felt compelled to improve accessibility for future attendees. He shared his story with the Governor — as well as with his national political party — with the hope of driving change. Karl shares, “Don’t be afraid to stand up and ask questions about dates or times or accessible accommodations. You’ll be helping others as well!”
As an active participant in Society events including Walk MS and Bike MS, Karl never shies away from sharing his story. Each year, Karl attends his MS State Action Day at the capitol in Olympia, Washington to re-connect with some of the elected officials who got his vote. “I can’t say enough about how great it is to meet your elected officials at such a great event,” Karl shares. “Whether you plan to attend a State Action Day like me or perhaps you find a local meeting to attend — be sure to add your voice as an MS activist.”
Join Karl in his
passion for voting and staying in touch with elected officials.