As election season approaches, it’s vital to recognize and celebrate the rich diversity that makes Wyoming such a beautiful community. The Hispanic community is an essential part of this wonderful state. They are our teachers, counselors, oil field workers, business owners, and public officials. They are hardworking individuals contributing to the fabric of our society. Most importantly, they are human beings with families, dreams, and the same rights as all of us, including the right to vote.
Eligible voters, regardless of their background, must be heard. An eligible voter in Wyoming is a U.S. citizen who is at least 18 years old and has met the state’s residency requirements. It is a straightforward criterion that ensures that every citizen’s voice counts in shaping the future of our state and country.
Unfortunately, baseless claims and conspiracies have been spreading across the United States, and sadly, Wyoming has not been immune. There is no credible evidence to suggest that noncitizens are voting in significant numbers in our elections. In fact, it’s already a crime for noncitizens to vote. There are strict laws such as the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act, that explicitly prohibit noncitizens from voting in elections. Wyoming has created a safe process to keep ineligible voters from casting a ballot. According to the Heritage Foundation, Wyoming has had three incidents in almost 25 years and those people faced the consequences. Undocumented people don’t want to vote in our elections, they sometimes are so afraid that they often don’t even go seek medical attention when needed.
Despite this, some elected Wyoming officials continue to spread harmful misinformation. Such actions are not only divisive but also harmful to the unity and progress of our community. Diversity is beautiful and should be celebrated, not defamed. People from all walks of life work hard for their titles and their families, striving to live the best lives they can alongside their loved ones.
This election year, let’s focus on the facts and celebrate the contributions of all community members. Let’s reject the politics of fear and division. The Hispanic community in Wyoming, like all others, deserves respect, recognition, and the right to fully participate in our democracy. If you are eligible, we highly encourage you to vote this election year. By doing so, we embrace the diversity that makes our state strong and united. Through initiatives like the Chair Project, we aim to ensure every Wyomingite has a seat at the table and a voice in our future.
Rosa Reyna-Pugh is a representative of the Chair Project and the Civic Engagement Director for the Equality State Policy Center. The Chair Project is a project from the Equality State Policy Center (ESPC) that aims to increase voting and civic engagement within Hispanic and Latino Communities. Learn more at equalitystate.org/chairproject/