America Ferrera, Rosario Dawson, Eva Longoria, Gina Rodriguez and Zoe Saldana were among the Latina celebrities that led a march to the polls through the streets of Little Havana Sunday in support of Democratic candidates.
The event started at a rally organized by Latinas en Marcha at Ball and Chain restaurant in Little Havana Sunday night.
“We’re here," said Andrea Christina Mercado, Executive Director for New Florida Majority, who opened the rally. "We have the power to elect candidates that will defend our families. That will support our communities. That will invest in our schools. Protect our healthcare and our right to choose. And protect Mother Earth.”
Actress America Ferrera also addressed the crowd and underscored the importance of voting in Florida: “What happens in Florida is going to impact the rest of the nation," she said. "Florida is a one percent state, the elections in Florida are won by one percent. That means every single vote counts."
Gina Rodriguez, Golden Globe winner, encouraged the crowd to remain active after casting a ballot, by campaigning and taking others to vote.
“We know, and [the current administration] knows, that when we show up and feel empowered, and resourced, and educated enough to go to the polls, this country will never go backward. This country will never become regressive,” Rodriguez said.
After the rally, attendees and speakers of the event marched to Shenandoah Park, south of Little Havana, to cast their ballot before the polling station closed at 7 p.m.
Event organizers included New Florida Majority, the Florida Immigrant Coalition, the Center for Popular Democracy Action, and the Latino Victory Project.
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