Dr. Yolett Ebakate advocates for Haitian Creole ballots in Randolph

The Massachusetts Joint Committee on Election Laws convened on June 17, 2025, to discuss critical legislation aimed at enhancing voter accessibility for the Haitian community in Randolph. A key focus of the meeting was Bill S 509, which proposes the inclusion of Haitian Creole ballots in elections, a move that advocates argue is essential for ensuring fair and equitable voting rights.

Dr. Yolett Ebakate, a resident of Randolph, emphasized the urgency of this initiative, stating that the current lack of bilingual ballots disenfranchises Haitian American voters who struggle with English. "Language should never be a barrier to democratic participation," she asserted, highlighting the significant presence and contributions of the Haitian community in Massachusetts. The introduction of Haitian Creole ballots is seen as a necessary step towards affirming the civic rights of Creole-speaking voters and fostering their engagement in the democratic process.

Dasia Kirkland, a member of the Randolph Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Board, echoed these sentiments, describing Randolph as the most diverse town in Massachusetts. She argued that providing ballots in Haitian Creole would position the state as a leader in equitable voting practices. Kirkland challenged the notion that non-English speakers should simply learn English, pointing out that even proficient English readers often find ballots difficult to understand.

The committee also encouraged public participation, inviting written testimony from those unable to speak during the meeting. This outreach reflects a commitment to inclusivity and transparency in the legislative process.

As Massachusetts continues to navigate the complexities of voter access, the discussions from this meeting underscore a pivotal moment in the fight against voter suppression and the push for a more inclusive electoral system. The proposed legislation could set a precedent for other states, reinforcing the importance of language accessibility in democracy.