A recently naturalized citizen who has lived in the U.S. for nearly 30 years is eager to exercise her right to vote in the upcoming November election.
For Maria Corrales, the stakes couldn’t be higher. And the opportunity to vote is something she doesn’t take lightly.
“For me, it’s going to be very important to vote for the right person who truly wants to help the community,” Corrales said. “Right now, the candidates seem focused on highlighting their differences. But they should be focusing on how to help the citizens, because we have several issues related to housing, healthcare, and education.”
Corrales is part of a larger conversation happening at Amigos de Guadalupe , an organization in East San Jose where she works. This community-focused organization not only provides resources for immigration and housing, but also spreads the word about the importance of the Latino vote.
According to Amigos de Guadalupe Director of Operations Misraym Mendoza, voting is crucial, especially in a community where participation rates are low.