Latina Power
By José López Zamorano/ February 27, 2024
There is much to celebrate during the month of March -Women's History Month - especially for Latina women in the United States during this election year.
When it comes to civic participation among the Latino community, the winners are undoubtedly Latina women who outshine the men, even with one hand tied behind their back. They consistently outvote Latino men, with higher voter registration and turnout, especially among the 18-to 24-year-old age group.
Simply put, Latinas are the driving force behind the growth and electoral influence of the Latino community in the United States. The numbers back this up. Currently, 19 Latinas are serving in the House of Representatives, and others are making strides in the Senate, like Senator Catherine Cortez-Masto of Nevada and New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
It has not been an easy path. Gloria Molina became the first Latina in the California state legislature in 1982, and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen was the first Latina elected to Congress in 1989.
It is important to remember that it was not until 1975 that Congress extended the Voting Rights Act to require language assistance at the polls, enabling
Latina, Asian, and Native American women to effectively exercise their political rights.
Yet, a paradox remains–Latinas are still underrepresented in the U.S. women's vote, especially compared to non-Latina white women.
According to a UnidosUS study, “a significant investment in critical voter outreach and mobilization is needed to realize the full potential that both Latinas and Latinos have to influence the U.S. political landscape and, therefore, the policy outcomes that impact their lives and communities.”
The good news is that many organizations are dedicated to mobilizing Latino voters, with a special emphasis on Latina women.
For instance, Poder LatinX has launched the “Poderosas” grant as part of its community empowerment programs, providing leadership development and inspiration to Latinas in key electoral states, using civic engagement tools to increase voter participation in their communities.
Voting is the most powerful tool people have to drive change and promote equality and equity.
By participating in the electoral process—whether as voters or candidates– Latinos can influence public policies that directly impact our lives, such as health, the economy, education, immigration, and social justice.
Every vote count, and every voice matters. Latinas are leading the way, setting a powerful example as workers, mothers, and fully engaged citizens.
The original Spanish-language article can be found here on La Red Hispana.