Washblog

Sandy is part of a crew of young immigrants and youth of color for whom getting out the vote is more than just a job. "I want to inform people about immigrants and give respect to them," she says. "They aren't included, and they should be. They are important."

A greater immigrant voice in politics will ensure that the issues confronting young people like Sandy will become more of a priority for elected officials. She'd like to see comprehensive immigration reform that will end the current enforcement-only approach that breaks up families. "I hope it actually makes a difference and stops them tearing people apart."

So far, it's making a huge difference. In the last month, Sandy and her crew have knocked on over 7,000 doors, and spoken with thousands of new and infrequent voters from underrepresented communities. The reception from immigrants and people of color who have long felt overlooked has been overwhelmingly positive. People are constantly telling Sandy how glad they are that she's talking to them about why it's important to vote. More importantly, the vast majority of people she speaks with agree that this election is their chance to be heard, and they are going to vote.

"People support us. It's pretty awesome."