Power of ballot box lifts Latino aspirations

“Despite their growing numbers, Latinos’ participation in city elections has been a dicey proposition in past years. But a record number of Spanish-speaking candidates on this year’s ballot could signal a new era in ethnic politics in the region and an increase in the number of Hispanic voters.

For the first time in Western Massachusetts history, the number of Hispanic candidates has reached double digits. Twelve of the 54 candidates vying for seats on city councils and school committees in Holyoke and Springfield are Latinos. The increased number of Hispanics willing to put their names before the voters is a welcome and significant development - one that bodes well for participatory democracy.”

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