Nebraska commission promotes Latino engagement in politics
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Nebraska Commision on Latino-Americans is starting a campaign to educate Latinos and help them be more involved in Nebraska politics.
It consists of creating infographics in Spanish and English with information on how to engage in government.
“One of the parts of the commission mission is to start spreading the information about how the people can participate and get more involved in politics and civic life,” said Maria Arriaga, the Commission’s executive director.
The commission said this information is critical for Latinos, the largest minority in our state.
Arriaga said some of the barriers are language, lack of interest and lack of education.
The infographics include information about Nebraska’s state senators, how can people speak to them and bills they propose in the Legislature.
Arriaga said that regardless of your immigration status, “You have the chance to get your voice get heard.”
Sen. Tony Vargas, one of two Latino lawmakers in Nebraska, said it is important to let the community know who they are and how to reach them.
Civic Nebraska is another organization working to break some of the barriers for voters in our state.
The group said it is important to look at the community’s needs, especially minorities.
“Engaging with your senators, engaging with your institutions, voting, going to vote, all of those things, as a society we must meet people where they’re at,” spokesman Steve Smith said. “That does mean working with folks in their native languages, where they live, in their neighborhoods.”
