PLAN, the Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada put together a rally honoring first time Latino Voters in Reno. KUNR’s Stephanie Serrano checked it out.
Attendees were greeted by music played by a traditional Mexican Mariachi Band. According to Lydia Lopez, an organizer with PLAN, the space was for first-time Latino voters to celebrate with their community.
“We noticed that this year there weren't that many Latino celebrations so we made sure something happened this year and one of the things that is really important for the Latino community, is community and building that bond and making sure like, hey you voted, you should be celebrated for it, because it is a big deal."
Valeria Miranda shared her inaugural voting experience with her father, Emilio. They were unable to vote last election due to their immigration status, but today they are both U.S citizens and relish the right to vote.
"My mom sat down with me and she reminded me of the people who aren't able to vote and want to vote. It just took me back to my roots and reminded me of how fortunate I am."
Emillio has been raising his family in the United States for over 20 year and has made the country his home. A few of his concerns revolved around gun reform, education and renewable energy, but he believes that with the right to vote, these complex issues can be addressed. He says that we can help so these kinds of issues don’t become controversial and we can find solutions.
"The most important part about voting is to find solutions, not problems. If we vote together we can give those solutions," said Emillio
The celebration ended with a serenata, a time for the marichai band to serenade the first-time voters as they marched to the polls.
