Turnout efforts focus on new bloc Immigrant groups mobilizing for vote

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.boston.com/news/local/politics/candidates/articles/2006/11/04/turnout_efforts_focus_on_new_bloc/

Turnout efforts focus on new bloc
Immigrant groups mobilizing for vote

By Yvonne Abraham, Globe Staff | November 4, 2006

Angry that illegal immigrants were targeted in the gubernatorial campaign, immigrants are mobilizing at unprecedented levels for next week's election, say those who work with them.

Community groups say they are signing up growing numbers of immigrants, both citizens and noncitizens, to help register neighbors and encourage them to go to the polls. Dozens of voter mobilization efforts have kicked into gear across the state.

It is difficult to say what impact the effort will have Tuesday. But those who work closely with immigrant communities say they have never seen this level of engagement.

In large part, Lieutenant Governor Kerry Healey's high-profile opposition to benefits for illegal immigrants appears to be driving the new activity.

FULL story at link above.

[aquart]

1. Once upon a time, there was a new mayor of Chicago......

Who closed the beer halls on Sundays. Sunday was the only day the hardworking German immigrants could find the time to take a drink. Drinking beer wasn't what you'd call a "benefit" even in those days before Social Security, but it was all they had. Mayor lasted a whole six months.

Immigrant power.

[riverwalker]

2. first vote

I helped a Liberian immigrant, and brand new citizen find her polling place and registration requirements. She was voting for the first time and so excited. "I know you like politics so I knew you could help me". She considered voting as a serious honor and duty.