In a state that helps suppress Latino and elderly voters' ability to cast their ballots, conducting successful canvassing efforts has become more difficult. The 2024 primary elections were the beginning of a long road in this election year.
Inaction of the federal government and the demagoguery of the state are something border communities will not tolerate. The community showed leadership by casting their ballots. The voice of our community is louder and stronger because they took action at the ballot box.
The 2024 primary elections show that Texas and the Rio Grande Valley are important battlegrounds for the upcoming November elections. Border residents have been at the forefront of border policies and are fed up with people who live hundreds of miles away from the border driving conversation and policies at the Southern border. We know the power we have to significantly influence and shape electoral outcomes, not just locally but also at the state and national levels.
I want to express my deep appreciation for the tireless efforts of the LUPE civic engagement team and our dedicated members. Over the past three months, we have worked diligently to ensure that every member of our community had the opportunity to participate in the electoral process.
Moving forward, LUPE remains dedicated to working with our community members to actively participate in shaping our democracy. Together, we will continue to advocate for equitable representation and organize with our members to amplify our voices."
Editor’s Note: The above guest column was penned by Tania Camacho Chavez, executive director of La Unión del Pueblo Entero. The column first appeared in a e-newsletter sent to LUPE members and supporters. Camacho Chavez said that through voter registration initiatives, educational outreach, and grassroots organizing, LUPE remains committed to working with the new generation of voters and electing representatives that bring the voices of the border to the state and nation's capital.
