Philly grassroots organizations fill the void of Spanish language voter information
BY MICHELLE MYERS ON NOVEMBER 2, 2020
"At this point in life, we are finally having enough Latinos eligible to vote." - Edgar Ramirez, Philatinos Radio
As Pennsylvania turns into an election battleground, the Latinx community must teach themselves how to vote. In Philadelphia alone, 12.3% of Latinos are eligible to vote, but the lack of information in Spanish could tip the balance. Philatinos Radio, ALA PHL, and Philly Boricuas are leading initiatives to inform the community.
BY NIGEL THOMPSON BY OCTOBER 16, 2024
Donald Trump, the Republican nominee for a third time, focuses his 2024 campaign on immigration and the economy. His plans include completing the border wall, mass deportations, and addressing inflation through deregulation and tax cuts. Trump also emphasizes foreign policy, opposing U.S. involvement in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas conflict, while pushing right-wing cultural issues like banning "critical race theory" in schools.
BY RAFAEL BITANGA, NIGEL THOMPSON, AND JALEN RAMSEUR-WILLIAMS ON OCTOBER 2, 2024.
This short documentary features Daniela Morales, a 23-year-old DACA recipient that reflects on the impact that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals has made on her life, and the ever-present sense of uncertainty she feels, especially during every election cycle.
BY ELIZABETH ESTRADA OF SPOTLIGHT PA ON SEPT. 12, 2024.
Students in Pennsylvania's almost 300 colleges, universities, and technical schools will be eligible voters in the upcoming election. This comprehensive guide will help student determine their eligibility status and understand how to make their voice heard on the ballot.
BY ILIANA PINEDA, FRANCES ALMODOVAR, AND CLAUDIA CEBALLOS ON OCTOBER 3, 2024.
The 40th Annual La Feria del Barrio, hosted by Taller Puertorriqueño in partnership with other local Latinx organizations, brought Philly's Latinx community together with live music, dancing, delicious food, and arts on Sept. 8. Watch the full video recap.
BY JENSEN TOUSSAINT ON SEPT. 16, 2024.
Philadelphia’s Black heritage sites, including the National Marian Anderson Museum, Paul Robeson House & Museum, and The Friends of the Tanner House, play a crucial role in the city’s history but face significant preservation challenges. On September 10, 2024, the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia’s panel discussion at the Cosmopolitan Club highlighted the urgent need for increased funding and advocacy to sustain these landmarks. Despite their historical importance, these sites often receive less attention compared to tourist-heavy areas, with calls for $1 million to $3 million in funding to ensure their preservation. Proceeds from the event will directly support these vital cultural sites.
BY NIGEL THOMPSON ON SEPT. 3, 2024
Daniela Morales and Adesola Ogunleye share their experiences as DACA recipients navigating life in the U.S. Both women are driven by their desire to make a positive impact in their communities, despite the challenges of their immigration status, and remain hopeful and engaged as the 2024 presidential election approaches.
BY ILIANA PINEDA ON SEPTEMBER 3, 2024. Iliana Pineda reported on the Aug. 21 protest by the Pennsylvania Immigration and Citizenship Coalition (PICC), demanding the closure of four regional detention centers. "We are urging our elected officials to improve immigrant rights, starting with shutting down these centers," stated PICC Executive Director Jasmine Rivera. The protest concluded at U.S. Senator John Fetterman's office, where community members shared their harrowing experiences in detention facilities, including the death of Cameroonian immigrant Frankline Okpu.
BY KATIE MEYER OF SPOTLIGHT PA ON AUGUST 19, 2024.
What happens if Pennsylvania's governor steps down? Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis may have to prepare for a potential transition should Governor Josh Shapiro advance to a higher office or depart. Pennsylvania's leadership and political landscape may change according to its political succession plan.
BY DANIELLE OHL OF SPOTLIGHT PA; JESSICA LUSSENHOP OF PROPUBLICA; AND IRINA BUCUR, TRACY LETURGEY AND EDDIE TRIZZINO OF THE BUTLER EAGLE ON AUGUST 20, 2024
Local police in Butler, PA were warned of vulnerabilities prior to former President Trump's rally, but a security breakdown, poor coordination, and other issues led to a gunman injuring Trump and killing one man. Officials recommend improvements in security if Trump returns.
BY ELIZABETH ESTRADA FOR SPOTLIGHT PA ON OCTOBER 14, 2024.
The 2024 election is critical, with Pennsylvania playing a pivotal role in determining the next president. Find out how to register, locate your polling place, vote by mail, and more in this comprehensive election guide.