CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A food drive in Charlotte is not only helping people feed their families but is also encouraging people to vote.
Organizers said food helps meet an immediate need, but voting can help meet our community’s needs for years to come.
“I tell people all the time, your vote is your power,” said Mayor Vi Lyles.
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Several community organizations spent Saturday morning getting people registered to vote while also providing food for 2,000 Charlotte families. It was part of Michelle Obama’s voting initiative -- When We All Vote.
“Even though we can’t vote, we can still be part of that process of getting more people to vote,” said student Mia Zottoli.
Charlotte Latin students participated in the event to get people registered even though they themselves are too young to vote.
Students like Nyela Rucker wanted to participate in the democratic process -- this way -- so that their community is better represented.
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“If the community doesn’t express their voice, than the representation in government doesn’t reflect the community. It reflects those who did vote,” Rucker said.
They were encouraged to see all of the cars lined up around Revolution Park.
“We know what we are doing here is important because people are noticing. There are so many cars here,” Zottoli said.
While the top of the ticket includes the president, the governor and key congressional seats, the mayor said the bottom of the ticket is just as important, especially for the families in Charlotte.
“I want to make sure our bonds are passing, our affordable housing, our streets, and our neighborhood bonds. So, that’s why I am encouraging people to get out and vote,” Lyles said.