Staff Report

MIAMI, Fla. – The Haitian Americans Professionals Coalition (HAPC) has joined Florida For All Education Fund (FEF) in their statewide effort to get 1.5 million black voters to participate in the 2020 general election.

They are spearheading the nonpartisan collaborative effort hope of encouraging the often underrepresented to exercise their right to vote.

HAPC and FEF are teaming with their community partners, which include the Haitian American Nurses Association, Community Access Center, Haitian Lawyers Association, Association of Haitian Educators of Dade, Family Action Network Movement, CaribbeanAmerican Visual Cultural Preservation, and the Haitian American Coalition of South Florida. The caravans will take place starting on Oct. 24 and run until Nov. 3.

“LOWEST VOTING RECORDS”

"We are hoping to encourage and energize the black and brown communities who have the lowest voting records in South Florida to exercise their right to vote,” said Sandy Dorsainvil, HAPC board member.

“If they don’t have a voting plan, we want to help them create one.”

The caravan will include the groups with decorated cars with signs that encourage people to be heard through their votes. Their message is simple: Vote.

HAPC also will remind people that they can request to have a ballot mailed to them.

“WITHOUT OUR INPUT”

"This is a crucial year for black people in South Florida,” said Katia Saint Fleur, a political strategist who is leading the work among Caribbean and Black constituency with Florida For All Education fund.

“The stakes are high, and the issues of racism, COVID-19, and the economy are prevalent in our communities” Saint Fleur said. “Our children and our schools are not receiving a fair and adequate share of resources, and voting is how we ensure our children receive a fair and equal education.

“Suppose the black community doesn’t vote or fill out and return their Census. In that case, other people will continue to make decisions that affect our lives without our input."

HAPC also is promoting its 20 for 20 Campaign, asking that everyone commit to getting 20 of their friends, family, neighbors, and social media friends.

CARAVAN SCHEDULE

Oct. 24

Starting time and location, 11 a.m., North Miami Library, 835 NE 132nd St., North Miami. The caravan will proceed through North Miami and North Miami Beach.

Oct. 25

Starting time and location, 11 a.m., Walmart 17650 NW 2nd Agee, Miami Gardens. The caravan will proceed through Miami Gardens and unincorporated Dade.

Nov. 1

Starting time and location, 11 a.m., North Miami Library. The caravan will proceed through North Miami Beach/North Miami.

Nov. 3

Starting time and location, 11 a.m., Little Haiti Cultural Complex, 212 NE 59th Ter., Miami. Visit hapcoalition.org or call 786897-8854.