As the 2024 election approaches, voter registration groups are turning to a powerful tool to engage young Latinos: música mexicana. Bands like Los Tigres Del Norte, Eslabón Armado, and La Original Banda el Limón are teaming up with organizations like Voto Latino and Mi Familia Vota to encourage Latino voter participation.
According to a report by the Pew Research Center, Latinos are the largest ethnic or racial minority group in the United States, making up 18% of the population. However, their voter turnout has historically been lower than other groups. In the 2020 election, only 53% of eligible Latino voters cast their ballots, compared to 66% of Black voters and 65% of white voters.
This is where música mexicana comes in. With its roots in Mexican culture and its ability to connect with young Latinos, it has the potential to be a powerful tool in mobilizing this demographic to vote. Los Tigres Del Norte, a legendary norteño band, has been using their platform to encourage their fans to register to vote and make their voices heard.
In an interview with Rolling Stone, lead singer Jorge Hernandez said, “We have a responsibility to use our music to bring attention to important issues, and voting is one of them. We want to inspire our fans to participate in the democratic process and make a difference in their communities.”
Eslabón Armado, a popular regional Mexican group, has also been actively involved in promoting voter registration. The band’s lead singer, Pedro Tovar, has been using his social media platforms to share information about how to register to vote and the importance of civic engagement.
La Original Banda el Limón, known for their traditional banda music, has also joined the effort to increase Latino voter turnout. The band has partnered with Voto Latino to create a series of videos encouraging their fans to register to vote and make their voices heard.
The impact of música mexicana on Latino voter participation was evident in the 2020 election. According to Voto Latino, their voter registration efforts reached over 1 million young Latinos, and 60% of those registered went on to vote. This shows the potential for music to be a powerful tool in engaging and mobilizing young Latinos to participate in the democratic process.
As the 2024 election approaches, it is clear that música mexicana will continue to play a crucial role in encouraging Latino voter participation. With the support of popular bands and organizations, it has the potential to make a significant impact and ensure that the voices of young Latinos are heard at the ballot box.
