As the 2024 election approaches, millions of Americans will receive “I Voted” stickers as a symbol of civic participation.
The origins of these stickers can be traced back to the late 1980s, with claims that the Phoenix Realtors Association began distributing them in 1985.
Some instances of similar stickers date back to the 1950s.
Initially provided by local businesses or civic organizations, the stickers became widely recognized by the late 1980s, evolving into a cultural symbol of voting.
The classic oval sticker design was popularized in 1987 by the company Intab, which continues to produce millions of them each year.
While many jurisdictions now offer variations, including multi-language options and state-themed designs, the stickers still serve the purpose of encouraging voter participation by creating social pressure.
However, experts debate their effectiveness in boosting turnout, noting that the social influence of individuals often plays a more significant role in mobilization.
With the rise of early voting, the communal aspect of Election Day voting has diminished. Digital initiatives, like Facebook’s online stickers, have shown a slight increase in turnout.
Nonetheless, physical stickers still hold symbolic value for many voters, exemplified by the tradition of placing them on the grave of women’s suffrage pioneer Susan B. Anthony in Rochester, New York.
