Latina Futures & the 2024 Presidential Election: The Promise of an Inclusive Democracy

With the 2024 presidential election on the horizon, the significance of an inclusive democracy has never been more critical. This summer, Latina Futures co-founder Sonja Diaz has been making the rounds at a series of high-impact conferences underscoring the vital role of Latino – especially Latina – voices in shaping the future of American democracy.

At the UnidosUS National Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, Sonja Diaz moderated a plenary session highlighting the Latino community’s crucial role in safeguarding democratic values. Joined by prominent figures such as Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes and Nevada Secretary of State Francisco Aguilar, the session delved into the strategies necessary to mobilize Latino voters and defend the integrity of the electoral process.

The conversation emphasized the importance of engaging with local communities and leveraging trusted partnerships and messengers to ensure voters not only make it to the polls, but that their vote is counted and certified this November. Diaz, with her extensive background in civil rights advocacy, contextualized questions with current events to discuss  how Latino communities can overcome the challenges of misinformation and voter suppression. The session served as a rallying cry for Latinos across the nation to unite and protect the democratic principles of free and fair elections, and rule of law.

Following the UnidosUS conference, Diaz brought her expertise to the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) National Convention in Houston, Texas. Diaz joined a powerful panel moderated by Wajahat Ali, where the conversation centered on the role of diverse voting blocs in the upcoming elections. Alongside leaders from the NAACP and AFT, Diaz explored how progressive strategies could pave the way for significant victories in 2024 following the elevation of Vice President Kamala Harris to the top of the Democratic ticket.

The panel underscored the importance of voter engagement and the need for innovative approaches to overcome the growing challenges of political polarization and misinformation. Diaz’s presence on the panel highlighted her commitment to ensuring that the youthful communities of color, especially  Latinas and women of color, are not only heard but also actively involved in setting the policy agenda in the next administration. Her critical insights reflected a deep understanding of the role civic engagement plays in democracy and the work necessary to integrate the diverse perspectives of women workers in the years ahead. 

Finally, Diaz joined the Education Writers Association (EWA) National Seminar in Las Vegas, Nevada, where she contributed to a plenary discussion that linked education and civic engagement, exploring how public schools are fulfilling their obligation to develop engaged citizens.

On the panel, Diaz shared her perspective on the diverse priorities that motivate youth voters, particularly Latinas and other women of color, to head to the polls. Moderated by Dana Goldstein of The New York Times, the discussion highlighted the potential of young voters to influence election outcomes, from local races to the presidency. Diaz’s contributions emphasized the importance of understanding and engaging youth voters, particularly in communities that have historically been underrepresented in elections. Her insights into the role of education in fostering civic responsibility resonated with the broader theme of empowering the next generation to be active participants in democracy.

Throughout the summer, Diaz’s message has remained clear: the 2024 presidential election is a pivotal moment for  the future of democracy in America. The work done at these conferences is more than just talk; it’s a blueprint for action. Whether it’s through moderating essential conversations on election administration and mobilization at UnidosUS, contributing to critical discussions about the path towards a multi-racial democracy at AFT, or promoting new story hooks to journalists at at the Education Writers Association conference, Diaz’s leadership is helping to shape a future where every voice is heard, and every vote counts.

As we approach the 2024 elections, Latina Futures remains dedicated to lifting up Latina voices and ensuring that democracy includes all communities. The promise of an inclusive democracy for all is within reach, but faces threats. It is leaders like Diaz who are lighting the path forward, and paving the way for the next generation to step into power.