Election Day

“Collier Freedom was created after Election Day 2016. I remember going to work in tears and everyone in my office felt the same way. That same day I had an annual exam scheduled and cried throughout it because the winner was against reproductive rights.
Two of my friends decided to grab dinner and beers. I realized hope helpless I felt. My friends decided that we’d march even though the results were in. Our first march was called Occupy Collier and 100 people showed up. We marched on 5th near downtown and screamed loud how opposed we were to the president-elect. People looked to us to coordinate the Women’s March in Cambiar Park.
The Immokalee community is underserved and that’s why I’m voting for the candidate that represent the residents who make up the majority of the population. Other candidates for local office care more about money. On a national level, I’m personally voting for the candidate that’s not going to put children in cages.
I’m also here to fight against voter suppression. I’m here for the new voters, returning felons, and those with a language barrier. I’m here to make this process less scary and welcoming for all. It’s important to stand up for these individuals so they feel they have a voice to better the community they want to be a part of.

​-Karynn, a local activist, reflects on why she is volunteering on Election Day in Immokalee. A steady stream of vehicles came to vote at Immokalee’s local precinct. The steady flow of voters coming in-of all backgrounds and beliefs-in Immokalee makes those volunteering and voting hopeful.