In Haverhill, Massachusetts, the Latino Coalition is making significant strides in registering Latino and Hispanic voters, particularly those who face language barriers. Since its inception in 2019, the nonprofit has mobilized volunteers to assist thousands of voters in understanding the electoral process, especially as the Presidential Election approaches.
Key Takeaways
- The Latino Coalition has registered thousands of Latino and Hispanic voters since 2019.
- Language barriers are a significant challenge for non-English speaking voters.
- The coalition provides essential resources, including translated ballots and educational sessions.
- Concerns among Latino voters include education, immigration, and economic issues.
Addressing Language Barriers
Maria Yagual, a board member of the Latino Coalition, emphasizes the importance of overcoming language barriers to ensure that all community members can participate in the electoral process. With many non-English speaking voters feeling anxious about heading to the polls, the coalition offers pre-election support by reviewing sample ballots and explaining the voting process in their native languages.
Yagual recalls her own experience as an immigrant from Ecuador in 2003, where she faced similar challenges. She highlights that the coalition’s mission is to empower Latino and Hispanic individuals by providing them with the necessary tools to navigate local government and the voting process.
Community Engagement and Outreach
The Latino Coalition has actively engaged with the community through various outreach efforts, including:
- Advertising on local radio and TV stations.
- Making phone calls to non-English speaking residents to check their voter registration status.
- Hosting volunteer events and job fairs to assist with voter registration.
As the election nears, the coalition has noted a growing interest among Latino voters, particularly regarding issues such as education and the need for bilingual resources in schools. Many voters are also concerned about immigration policies, housing opportunities, and economic stability.
The Growing Latino Electorate
According to recent data, the Latino population in Haverhill and Lawrence is substantial, with approximately 16,000 and 73,000 residents, respectively. The coalition believes that most of these individuals are registered to vote, as Latino voters represent 23.5% of Haverhill’s population and a striking 81% in Lawrence.
The Latino Coalition’s efforts have contributed to a significant increase in eligible Latino voters across the United States, growing from 27 million in 2016 to 36.2 million in 2023. This demographic shift underscores the importance of organizations like the Latino Coalition in fostering civic engagement.
Political Preferences and Trends
Historically, Latino voters have leaned towards Democratic candidates, with 61% supporting President Joe Biden in the 2020 election. However, recent trends indicate a shift in preferences, with Vice President Kamala Harris currently receiving favorable support among Latino voters. As the political landscape evolves, understanding the concerns and priorities of this demographic will be crucial for candidates seeking their support.
Yagual remains focused on the coalition’s mission, stating, "Participation is what makes voices heard. If you come here and get involved with our community, we need you to stay here and help us." The coalition continues to provide vital resources and support to ensure that Latino and Hispanic voters can exercise their rights and make their voices heard in the upcoming elections.
