One of the greatest privileges that we have as U.S. citizens is the right to vote. But many of us are frustrated with the current stalemate in the U.S. Congress and we shake our heads in frustration with our elected officials’ lack of intestinal fortitude and failure to compromise and act in a responsible manner on behalf of our country.
Adding to our frustration is the big money we see pouring into our election process. There are many who are so angry that they have decided not to vote. They think that their vote does not count. They think their vote will not make a difference.
Not voting? People have died for the right to vote. No one can buy your vote, but they can buy your apathy. They can try to convince you that your vote is not worthy. The fact is, your vote is worth its weight in gold and it does make a difference!
We also need to make sure that everyone who can, registers to vote. This is one of the reasons that several of us have decided to see if we can generate interest to form a chapter of LULAC (the League of United Latin American Citizens) in West Liberty. LULAC is one of the oldest Latino advocacy organizations in the country. “The Mission of the League of United Latin American Citizens is to advance the economic condition, educational attainment, political influence, housing, health and civil rights of the Hispanic population of the United States.”
The meeting is open to all members of the community, Latinos and non-Latinos regardless of political affiliation or citizenship/residency status. We hope to organize ourselves around issues related to advocacy for the underrepresented and underserved; education and scholarship development; and voter registration. Our goal is to increase the civic participation of all of West Liberty’s residents and contribute to the overall welfare of our community.
Please join us at Local Grounds Coffee House (105 West 3rd Street, West Liberty, IA 52776) on Thursday, August 7th, at 6 PM for an informational/organizational LULAC meeting. We will provide complimentary bottled water and snacks. Adult beverages and coffee drinks will be available for purchase.
If you have any questions, please contact Sal Valadez at 309-340-5230.
And remember, YOUR VOTE COUNTS IOWA!
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