Last Friday Governor Bill Richardson spoke to the UNLV Students of Color Symposium, and he stated, “The political parties won’t listen to you if you don’t vote. [By not voting] we stay aloof. Neither party is going to pay attention to us and that hurts our ability to pass comprehensive immigration [laws], our ability to get the DREAM Act passed in [the] US Congress, our ability to deal with universal health care.”

This November Latinos are projected to exert their influence at the polls in record numbers. You can do your part by first verifying that you are registered to vote and then voting early if it is available in your county. Barack Obama’s campaign has set up a site for voters to find out where their polling place is, whether they are registered, and how they can vote early at VoteForChange. John McCain’s website also has a voter registration link. VotoLatino has voter registration deadlines up on its site as well. Check out VotoLatino’s creative voting PSAs that spoof the telenovela:

At the very least, get out and vote! If you have more time, please consider volunteering a few hours for the candidates and causes that you are most passionate about. It will be fun, rewarding, and educational. And remember what Dr. Howard Dean says about just voting earning you a D in democracy! We Latinos can earn a higher mark than a “D.”