Local Hispanics encouraged to vote

The Pro-Vote Campaign, or Campaña Pro-Voto, begins today in an effort to persuade more local Hispanics to become involved with community affairs, especially voting.

The event is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Sierra Bakery, 1966 Highway 50 East, in the Scolari's shopping center. It's being organized by the Latino Parent Committee, Latino Americana Chamber of Commerce and League of United Latin American Citizens, or LULAC.

"Together we're more powerful," said Leticia Servin, president of the Latino Parent Committee.

While there, people can register to vote in the Nov. 7 general election and gather election-related information in Spanish or English.

And this is just the beginning. Representatives will canvass neighborhoods and place advertising in area Hispanic media outlets, Servin said.

"Your vote is your voice," said Elvira Dias, owner of Sierra Bakery and a LULAC principal. "It's an important part of being a citizen."

The group will be nonpartisan so Democrats, Republicans or members of any other political parties will be welcome.

As a group, Carson's Hispanic community could wield more political power. People involved with Pro-Voto are doing research about the candidates and issues, and plan to compile information to help local Hispanics make educated decisions when they vote, Dias said.

The group also would like to present a candidates forum before the November election.

Potential voters especially being eyed are those who are 18 or 19 years old - young adults who would be casting a ballot for the first time. New citizens also are an important group of people to reach and persuade about the importance of voting, Servin said.

Equally important is studying the candidates and the issues.

"It's not something you do blindly," Dias said.

Whether they speak only English or only Spanish, or both, residents are encouraged to come to this event and become involved with the group. Skilled translators to read local election literature and rewrite it in Spanish are also welcome, she said.

Hispanic or not, anyone who wanders in for some pastry today is invited to participate or register to vote, Dias said.

People can also register at the Department of Motor Vehicles when they get a driver's license or identification card.

Call 885-0347 for details about Campaña Pro-Voto.

If you go

WHAT: Pro-Vote Campaign (Campaña Pro-Voto)

WHEN: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. today

WHERE: Sierra Bakery, 1966 Highway 50 East, in the Scolari's shopping center

INFORMATION: 885-0347

• Contact reporter Terri Harber at tharber @nevadaappeal.com or 882-2111, ext. 215.