DENVER – As the election nears, many candidates vie for Colorado’s Latino vote, and many community organizations aim to make sure the fastest growing segment of Denver’s population is engaged. The Colorado Latino Leadership, Advocacy & Research Organization (CLLARO), the Open Media Foundation (OMF), Elevation Creation Intl. and Denver band Prime Element have teamed up to host a voting celebration for young Latinos at Denver Open Media on 700 Kalamath for the First Friday Art Walk on November, 2nd.
The Latino vote has become increasingly important to all candidates looking for a path to victory in Colorado.. The 2010 Census revealed that over the previous decade, Latinos were the fastest growing population in Colorado, accounting for 41.2% of Colorado’s growth since the 2000 Census. 1 in 5 Coloradoans is now Latino, 20% of the total population.
“Election Day is the day that everyone’s voice counts equally. Our right to vote is too important,” believes Olivia Mendoza, executive director of CLLARO, “Make sure your voice is heard, while celebrating the richness of our culture.”
“We are excited for this event as we are bringing various elements together to energize young Latino voters and to help them recognize the power of their voice,” said Kathy Maestas Operations Manager of CLLARO. “We will have live music and a ‘Dia de Los Muertos’ (Day of the Dead’) performance to celebrate the power of the Latino vote while also infusing some cultural tradition into the celebration.”
The event which will start at 7 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.) will feature live performances by Westword’s “Best Hip-Hop Album – 2009” winners Prime Element, resources to find polling places and other voter information, and a Voter Voice box where voters can sound off on their issues. More information can be found about the event at VotaColorado.com.
CLLARO’s Mission To be the premier leadership development, public policy and research center dedicated to strengthening the Colorado Latino community.
OMF's Mission: The Open Media Foundation (OMF) is an innovative media and technology nonprofit organization dedicated to putting the power of the media in the hands of the people, enabling everyone to engage in their community and bring about the change they wish to see in the world.
