First-time Milwaukee voter says her vote carries on her family's voice

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- On the day of the mayoral election, first in line at the Zablocki Elementary School voting site was 18-year-old Celeste Garcia. It was a moment the teen had been waiting for. For her, her vote signifies her family's voice.

"I get to uplift them and voice their opinion, and not only them, but the immigrant community within Milwaukee," said Garcia.

She just turned 18 years old and said she's the only one in her family eligible to vote. She comes from a mixed status family, her sisters are DACA recipients and her parents are undocumented.

She said she has chosen the candidate that she thinks will help the immigrant community and their rights in Milwaukee.

Historically, Black and brown communities have had low voter turnout in Milwaukee. It’s a trend Alejandra Garcia, Celeste's sister, is determined to change.

"It's time to let our people know, our young people know, that no, don't let anyone get in the way of your voting rights, you start now," said Garcia, who also works for Voces de la Frontera Action which encourages young voters.

Garcia said she plans on encouraging others in her group to vote and see the change they want to see in their communities.