SAN ANTONIO – Bexar County announced Wednesday that the AT&T Center has been approved to serve as a voting site during the upcoming election cycle.
What You Need To Know
- Decision comes amid the social justice charged led by the NBA
- NBA suggested arenas be used in 2020 election after playoff game boycott by teams
- San Antonio Spurs have also held a drive-thru voter registration
- AT&T Center will be open during early voting and Election Day
The decision comes amid the social justice charged led by the NBA. While in the Orlando bubble for the season restart and, now, playoffs, players pushed to be as involved as possible in the fight against racial injustice.
When a Wisconsin man was shot and paralyzed by a police officer in August, the Milwaukee Bucks boycotted a playoff game, creating a domino effect throughout the sports world. In response, the NBA created more avenues in which teams could get involved locally.
One of the ideas was to allow teams to open up their local arenas as voter registration or polling sites, as the 2020 election plays a large part in current social issues.
The San Antonio Spurs stepped up to the plate, holding a drive-thru voter registration this week and are now partnering with the county to create a large, accessible voting site.
“As stewards of the AT&T Center, it was important for our organization to pursue this opportunity and collaborate with the county for safe voting locations in our community,” said Spurs Sports & Entertainment CEO RC Buford. “We firmly believe that voting is one of the most important and effective steps towards achieving equity for all. We’re proud that the AT&T Center has always been a place where the community comes together and it’s now a privilege to be able to turn it into a safe space where all voices can be heard.”
This will be the first time the AT&T Center has been utilized for voting in a general election. The 13,725-square-foot space on the Plaza Level concourse will allow for a larger voter turnout as the City of San Antonio and Bexar County continue to practice social distancing guidelines.
“Our goal from day one has been to expand opportunities for voters to engage in the process, particularly in larger venues where we can maximize spacing and ensure safety," said Bexar County Commissioner Justin Rodriguez. "This partnership with the Spurs is emblematic of what our hometown organization represents: community, civic engagement and giving back. It’s a true win-win.”
The center will be open to voters during early voting days from October 13-30 and Election Day on Tuesday, November 3.