In a vibrant display of unity and purpose, Houston Ethnic Media celebrated National Voter Registration Day this past Tuesday, September 17, 2024, bringing together media representatives, community leaders, and citizens from across Houston and you know Houston Style Magazines’ Burt Levine was there. With the upcoming Tuesday, November 5th elections fast approaching, the event emphasized the crucial need for voter registration, particularly in Texas, where political engagement has historically been lower than expected.

Nakia Cooper, a dedicated director of Houston Ethnic Media and a proud advocate for voter participation, delivered an impassioned speech. She declared, "Texas isn’t a red or blue state. It’s a state where fewer people are registered, and even fewer actually vote. We need to fix that. This election is monumental—not just for the presidency and U.S. Senate—but for local races that affect our daily lives." 

With the voter registration deadline in Texas looming on Monday, October 7th, Cooper’s words echoed the urgency of making every vote count. She drew from her family’s long-standing history in Texas, recounting how her ancestors—once denied the right to vote—fought for the privileges we often take for granted today. “My grandmother grew up in Fort Bend County, where voting was a struggle for women and people of color. Our family name, Rice, comes from Riceville, where my grandmother lived through the hardships and triumphs of gaining the right to vote. This election will shape our future, just like voting shaped our past.”

Cooper shared personal memories, recounting her days growing up in Houston and attending Westbury High School, where change became her mission. "When I was in school, our mascot was Johnny Reb, a pro-Confederacy figure," she said. "We fought hard to change that, and we did. That’s the power of collective action, just like voting can change the future for our communities."

Her pride for her country was apparent, but she stressed that improvements are still necessary, particularly within the Veterans Administration. Having family members who served in the U.S. Navy and Army, Cooper expressed her deeply personal connection to the idea that “freedom isn’t free,” adding, “Our veterans deserve better care, and voting is one way we can ensure their sacrifices are honored.”

As early voting kicks off on Monday, October 21st and continues through Friday, November 1st, Cooper, alongside Houston Ethnic Media, urges families to make this election a priority. “This is more than just casting a vote,” she said with conviction. “This is a family reunion—an opportunity for us to come together and make our voices heard. Bring your family, your friends, your neighbors. Let’s make this election count for all of us.”

Houston Style Magazine stands with Cooper and Houston Ethnic Media in encouraging the community to register, vote, and be the change they wish to see. Whether it's through local or national elections, your voice matters—let it be heard this fall.

For more info, visit HarrisVotes.com