Most Arizonans will never know the names of the people who prepare polling places, answer voters’ questions, process ballots and carefully count votes. Yet every election depends on their dedication.

They are our neighbors, friends and fellow community members who give their time and talents in service to others, often without recognition or thanks.

As faith, civic and business leaders, we recognize something deeply meaningful in that quiet commitment to service. We see it every day in our congregations, businesses and communities, where people care for neighbors, support local families and step forward when help is needed. We may come from different backgrounds, but we share a belief in every person’s dignity and a responsibility to contribute to the common good.

That is why we are coming together this week to celebrate election heroes as part of a national show of appreciation for the election officials, poll workers and volunteers who help make our democracy possible.

Their work deserves our gratitude and respect.

Unfortunately, that spirit of service is not always met with the kindness it deserves.

According to a 2026 national survey by the Brennan Center for Justice, 32% of local election officials reported experiencing threats, harassment or abuse. Nearly 1 in 4 worried about being assaulted at home or at work, while more than half expressed concern for the safety of their colleagues and staff.

No one should have to fear for their safety because they help their neighbors vote.

Our communities thrive when people trust one another and the institutions that serve them. That trust matters in our places of worship, our neighborhoods and our local businesses. It also matters in our elections, where confidence in a fair and transparent process is essential to a healthy democracy and a stable economy.

Supporting that process is not about taking a political side. It is about honoring the shared responsibilities that allow our communities to function and flourish.

We may vote for different candidates. But we can agree that every eligible voter deserves the opportunity to cast a ballot without interference, every lawful vote must be counted and the will of voters in a lawful election must be honored.

We can also agree that the people entrusted with administering our elections deserve to carry out their responsibilities safely, with the support of their communities.

These are not principles that belong to one political party, one faith or one profession. They are shared responsibilities that help sustain our communities.

As we honor election heroes, we invite Arizonans of every faith, background and political perspective to join us in showing appreciation. Offer a kind word to a poll worker. Show patience when voting. Remember that the people administering our elections are human beings deserving of dignity and respect.

Above all, take a moment to say thank you.

The people who make our elections possible serve neighbors whose names they may never know, without regard for how they vote or what they believe. Their commitment to serving others reflects the very values we strive to uphold in our own communities.

We may never know their names. But we can make sure their service does not go unrecognized.

Submitted by Kimber Lanning, CEO and President, Local First Arizona, Phoenix; Rev. Sarah Oglesby-Dunegan, Senior Minister, Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Chandler; Rev. Diamond Pate, Senior Pastor, Tempe First United Methodist Church; Rev. Hunter Ruffin, Rector, Episcopal Church of the Epiphany-Tempe; Rabbi Nitzan Stein-Kokin, Beth El Congregation, Phoenix; allies of AZ United for Fair Elections, a nonpartisan initiative of faith and community leaders.