During the midst of what has been a most unusual presidential election, it is critical that every one is involved in the voting process. This is even more of an importance within the Latino community, who could face sweeping changes as a result of legislation based on who wins the Presidency come November. The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (https://chc.house.gov/) has led the charge by advocating throughout the country for getting Hispanics involved in the legislative process. Yesterday they made a virtual bus tour stop in Manassas to discuss strategies for getting others to participate in early voting, which began on Friday in Virginia.

The festivities were hosted by Brenda Medrano-Frias. She shared a powerful story of how her family came to America as immigrants and the challenging adjustments they had to make in the face of discrimination. In spite of the obstacles she has grown to become a prominent leader in the Prince William community. She discussed the necessity of voting for a change in the White House come November. “We need a president who believes in expanding access to high quality equitable education and tackle the racial inequity in our educational systems,” said Medrano-Frias. “Specifically, we need someone who will eliminate the funding gap between white and non-white districts.” Afterwards she introduced Democratic Chairman Tom Perez.

“We have 44 days until the most important election of our lifetime,” said Perez. He talked about living in the DMV and what he has experienced through his life that motivated him to go into politics. He also took the time to remember and honor the life of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who passed away on Friday at the age of 87.

He reiterated that early voting started this past Friday, and that turnout was great. “Latinos have the power to change the election. Electing (Virginia Governor Ralph) Northam showed that we can make a difference when we vote.” Perez went on to mention the mistreatment of the Puerto Rican people by President Donald Trump’s administration during Hurricane Maria. “We have four crises going on right now, and what is the President doing about it?” He went on to talk about how the Latino community has been particularly impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic, leading to an unprecedented economic collapse and high unemployment, especially during civil rights pandemic. “This is why we need to get out and vote, our democracy depends on it.”

He concluded with the story of Robert F. Kennedy speaking with the Latino farmers in the 1960’s during their civil rights battle, and how their actions will have impact on future generations. The presentation concluded with an enthusiastic call to victory as he said “Vamos a ganar!”

Next, Medrano-Frias introduced Congressman Jesus “Chuy” Garcia of the 4th congressional district of Illinois. Garcia talked about how he as a young child immigrated with his family to Chicago, his home of 53 years. He saw the devastation that Latino families experienced with job loss and lack of opportunities in the workforce after the 2016 election. “We need a system that welcomes refugees and celebrates our diversity,” Garcia said to the attendees. “They (the Trump administration) will end DACA and Obamacare if they are allowed to replace (Ginsberg). “Remember how you felt in November 2016, and how you want to feel after November 3 of 2020!”

Luis Aguilar of CASA in Action was the final presenter. He talked about when he was in the State Legislature, it was the Democrats who supported him for the push to get immigrants driver’s licenses in Virginia. “The (voting) story goes beyond the immigrants, it goes into what we need to preserve as a community,” said Aguilar. He went on to emphasize why it was important to have this discussion in Manassas, because it is the home of the Civil War. “We have seen the battle in Prince William County. It is gone from a conservative place to one that has become more diverse. It is the story of seeking that equality.”

“We know the story of Cesar Chavez but it was the Latino farmers who made the slogan ‘Yes We Can’ famous prior to the President Barack Obama campaign using it in 2008. Use that right and responsibility to keep the ideal of America as alive as ever before, and that is by voting.”

“Latinos will be heard. Si Se Puede!”

Medrano-Frias closed the forum portion of the event by sharing a call to action for everyone. “While I, myself, cannot vote – I work hard every day to make sure others do. *That* is my vote! There are so many ways for you to take action and help.”

“It starts with being an active citizen, volunteering, but most importantly, it means not allowing your voice to go unheard. Voting matters, now more than ever.”

Aiden Maese of VA Victory discussed how people can get involved in the Virginia voters phone bank every Thursday from 6-8 pm. The website can be found here.

A moment of silence was held for Justice Ginsberg after the presentation.

For those who need to know where to vote please click on the link to locate the area closest in proximity to their neighborhoods.