The election is right around the corner and seen as how ethnic communities tend to have the lowest turnout, it’s a great time to galvanize them to contribute to the country’s democracy. After all it is their right. 

In a media briefing on February 23rd, hosted by Ethnic Media Services, experts shed light on the importance of voter education and engagement in communities across the United States. The discussion highlighted the need for increased awareness of the impact of local government decisions on daily lives, the barriers to electoral participation faced by marginalized communities, and innovative initiatives to combat misinformation and promote civic involvement.

Speakers

  • Ernie Serrano, Integrated Voter Engagement Organizer with Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education (SCOPE) in South Los Angeles (not pictured)
  • Debbie Chen, Houston-based community activist and Executive VP with the National OCA, Asian Pacific American Advocates 
  • Anneshia Hardy, Executive Director of Alabama Values 

Ernie Serrano emphasized the significance of investing in the economy to demonstrate genuine care for residents. He pointed out the disparity between the resources allocated and the actual needs of the community, highlighting the importance of aligning government actions with the well-being of its constituents. Serrano’s insights underscored the need for elected officials to prioritize the interests of all community members, especially those from historically marginalized backgrounds.

Debbie Chen highlighted the lack of understanding among voters regarding the electoral process. She emphasized the importance of educating individuals about the significance of primaries in determining candidates for the general election. Chen stressed the role of ethnic media in bridging the communication gap and ensuring that communities comprehend the impact of down-ballot races on their lives. By raising awareness about the responsibilities of local government officials, Chen advocated for increased civic participation beyond high-profile elections.

Annesha Hardy introduced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at combating misinformation and disinformation in the electoral process. Through the development of the Megafone mobile app in collaboration with Progress Now, Hardy’s organization seeks to centralize reliable information on community issues and provide users with a one-stop platform for up-to-date content. By partnering with state-based communications hubs, the app aims to disseminate hyper-local advocacy messaging and empower communities to make informed decisions during elections.

The discussion also delved into the challenges faced by communities of color in achieving equitable electoral participation. Pilar Marrero, the moderator, highlighted the lower voter turnout rates among Black and Brown communities compared to their white counterparts. Factors such as disenchantment with the political system and lack of civic education contribute to this disparity, underscoring the need for targeted outreach and education efforts to increase political engagement among marginalized groups.

Overall, the news conference underscored the critical role of voter education, community empowerment, and media literacy in fostering a more inclusive and participatory democracy. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and resources to navigate the electoral process effectively, organizations like SCOPE LA, Alabama Values, and Ethnic Media Services are working towards a more informed and engaged electorate.

As we navigate the complexities of modern democracy, initiatives that prioritize voter education and combat misinformation are essential for building a more equitable and representative political landscape. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to empowering communities, we can ensure that every voice is heard and every vote counts in shaping the future of our nation.