From HOPE CommUnity Center
Young voters are key to deciding the future of our state. That’s why Hope CommUnity Center (HCC) is launching the non-partisan campaign "Vote for Me," encouraging young voters and non-voters to make informed decisions and actively participate in the 2024 elections. The campaign is named “Vota x Mi" to represent millions of immigrants who pay taxes and, in some cases, have lived in Florida for decades but still do not have the right to vote.
A press conference will be held on Wednesday, October 2, at 10:00 a.m. at Hope CommUnity Center in Apopka, featuring Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet, Executive Director of Hope CommUnity Center, allied organization leaders, young immigrants, and community members supporting this initiative.
Generation Z and Millennials are a powerful and influential voting group in Florida and face several challenges as the elections approach. This campaign aims to provide them with all the necessary tools, including education, understanding of the electoral process, voter registration support, and engagement in crucial debates affecting Florida.
Smaller cities like Apopka are often overlooked by major political campaigns. However, organizations like Hope CommUnity Center, which have been committed to community improvement for decades, are in the best position to connect young people with the voting process. HCC has served youth for more than 50 years and is highly respected among the Latino and immigrant communities.
The “Vota x Mi” campaign includes a major community event on October 12 called “Meet in the Middle” at Kit Land Nelson Park in Apopka. This is particularly important since Apopka, located at the heart of our state, is home to immigrants, African Americans, and a growing diverse population. The multicultural event will provide information about the electoral process, voter registration, and cover critical issues on Florida's ballot, among other activities.
This campaign is the result of Hope CommUnity Center’s civic commitment and is supported by allied organizations to ensure that young voices are heard at the polls and that their decisions are reflected in the changes they want to see locally, statewide, and nationally. Their participation can have a significant impact on both local and national elections.
Relevant Data: Young voters are an essential demographic for shaping our future. According to the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, 57% of young people between 18 and 34 say it is "extremely likely" they will vote in 2024. Generation Z youth will make up more than 40 million potential voters in the United States.
Studies show that their concerns include issues such as inflation/cost of living, jobs with fair wages, gun violence, and climate change.
Date: Wednesday, October 2, 2024
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Hope CommUnity Center
1016 N. Park Avenue, Apopka, Florida 32712
