I’ll never forget the first time I voted. I was 27 years old, recently became a U.S. citizen, and I had been blockwalking for a school board candidate for months.
I was so excited to cast my vote for him—only to realize, at the ballot box, that his name wasn’t there. It turned out my address was just outside the district. I had done everything “right”—registered, showed up, made a plan—but couldn’t vote for the candidate I believed in due to a missing piece of information, and let’s face it, to an oddly shaped map.
My experience taught me how easy it is to feel lost in a system that’s already confusing—and how important it is to have support along the way. It was demoralizing to not have a chance to be represented by the candidate of my choosing.
Yet, our Texas senators and representatives are currently considering redrawing district maps at an unusual time, with limited public input, and in a manner that significantly weakens fair representation across our communities – particularly for Black and Latino voters who have historically (and presently) been underrepresented voting communities.
March to the Polls has spoken out against gerrymandering before and will do so again – because it dilutes the power of voting and undermines democracy. It is a way to try to win elections before anyone even votes.
Our vision is a future where every individual is empowered and equipped to shape a vibrant and inclusive democracy. If you are reading this, we know you care about a fairer, more inclusive democracy where every voice counts and I invite you to continue to support MTTP: volunteer, donate, or simply spread the word. Your contribution helps break down barriers to the ballot and empowers voters across Texas to show up, speak out, and make change.
Together – MTTP staff, volunteers, donors – let’s continue to ensure that all voters have equal access to the democratic process.
Speaking up for democracy,
Camila
Pictured above: A student-led elected officials forum where the entire senior class had the opportunity to meet their representatives, ask them questions, and share what matters to them.
Our Mission at March to the Polls is to empower youth and other low-voting communities — through nonpartisan civic education, leadership development, and hands-on learning experiences—to lead, vote, and stay civically engaged