The Immigrant Backbone of America

Guest Opinion

By Loida Tapia | Nov. 2, 2024

Democracy and the American Dream are at a critical juncture this year. From continued attacks on voting systems, hateful rhetoric directed toward immigrant communities, and policy proposals that seek to limit our personal freedoms, all of us have a responsibility to stand up for what is right and take action.

In response, the Civic Empowerment Coalition (CEC) is actively mobilizing to register, educate, and engage Latino, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) voters across Michigan for the upcoming election. The CEC is focused on training farmworkers, the children of farmworkers, and community members to effectively mobilize eligible voters within their families and communities.

The stakes are exceptionally high this election cycle, particularly with one candidate proposing mass deportation as a misguided solution to our economic, housing, and gun violence challenges—an approach that would only exacerbate our problems.

The fact is that this nation does not have food without the backbreaking work of predominantly Latino immigrants in the agricultural workforce. In Michigan alone, there are approximately 100,000 farm workers that are the backbone of our $100 million agricultural industry.

The CEC has a long-standing commitment for advocating for workers’ rights, most recently urging the Biden-Harris administration to implement historic measures to protect workers and communities from the detrimental effects of extreme heat. As we approach this election cycle, we must recognize what’s at stake for our communities.

In Michigan, our immigrant communities are strong and resilient but face their fair share of challenges right now, especially when it comes to civil rights, wage inequality, health problems, and lack of access to stable housing.

Regardless of who you are or where you come from, you deserve a life with dignity and freedom; yet Latino communities are more likely to be surveilled by the police. This is happening currently in Michigan, with a county commission here passing a resolution to track one’s immigration status during all encounters with law enforcement—a reminder of the injustices we continue to face.

An estimated 36.2 million Latinos are eligible to vote this year, accounting for 50 percent of the growth in eligible voters since 2020, according to Pew Research. Electing a president and Congress that will fully support policy measures that protect all workers and that respect the human dignity of immigrants is paramount. We can ensure that our priorities are championed and that there is the backing needed to enact meaningful change. Together, we can create a government that truly reflects our values as a nation and addresses the needs of our communities.

I understand why some Latinos are frustrated with the electoral process, especially after years of unfulfilled promises surrounding immigration reform. Many families are left in limbo, uncertain of their futures. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) are temporary solutions, and for many, these short-term measures will expire next year.

While we cannot control external factors, we can control our participation during the general election. We can help elect people who are willing to address the immigration system in a just and humane way. I urge you to seize the opportunity to vote early and take advantage of your voting rights in Michigan.

As a proud daughter of immigrants, I carry the legacy of sacrifice and hope for a better future. I have dedicated my career to inclusive policies that reflect the true fabric of America. From working in the U.S. Senate to the White House, I have focused on safeguarding elections and engaging voters across the country, and I believe that using your power to vote is one of the most important actions one can take.

This Nov. 5, let us ensure that the future welcomes immigrants and upholds our values of opportunity and equality—where the daughter of immigrants can aspire to be president. Immigrants are the frontline of this nation, and our absence would fundamentally alter the America we know.

Together, let us stand up and vote to protect our future and the future of our communities.

Loida L. Tapia is the campaign manager for the Civic Empowerment Coalition and a dedicated advocate for inclusive policies and voter engagement.