On November 4th, 2008 I exercised my right to vote for the first time in the U.S. It was a very especial day for me. Three years later, I have decided to extend my political participation rights to a higher level. We all know that Latinos do not act when giving the opportunity.
From 1990 to 2010, the number of eligible Latino voters (citizens age 18+) grew by 13.2 million. However, the number of actual Latino voters grew by only 3.7 million. In the 2010 elections, Latinos let 14.7 million votes go unused. Reasons given for not voting include being too busy, not being interested, or simply forgetting to vote.
The trends are not representative of all voting-eligible Latinos. Nearly half of Cubans and older Latinos (age 65+) vote, which is comparable to rates among whites. However, less than one-third of Puerto Ricans, Mexicans, and young Latinos voted in 2010.
I want to make my small contribution to change that in the community that I live in. I’m planning to get actively involved in the 2012 election. We can’t continue complaining about issues that affect our community if we don’t vote or get actively involved in public affairs. Latino participation in the 2012 election must grow.
I look forward to making a small contribution in any way I can. Political participation is a right that we have as citizens of the United States of America, have a VOICE in the issues that you care about the most. Get actively involved and help to shape the future of your Community, your State and our Nation.