Landmark Voting Rights Case Discussion April 18th in Watsonville

Landmark Voting Rights Victory Gomez v. Watsonville,

May 18th in Watsonville participant-witnesses and historians will detail how the Gomez v. City of Watsonville voting rights case came about, how it was fought and won and its lasting influence. This case challenged Watsonville’s district election system to end at-large elections and create of districts which resulted in providing a stronger voice and increased voting power to Latinos. Panelists will discuss their personal experiences and historic perspectives including contemporary impacts.
Moderator: Samuel Torres Jr., former Santa Cruz County Counsel and voting rights researcher.
Panelists: Paule Cruz Takash, Anthropologist and Watsonville Chronicler; Daniel Dodge Sr., MALDEF paralegal on Gomez v Watsonville and former Mayor; and Karina Cervantez, former Mayor and UCSC Doctoral Candidate.

This event is free to the public and is presented in conjunction with Vote! Your Vote is Your Voice ¡Vote! Su Voto es Su Voz at Pajaro Valley Arts Gallery. The exhibit, which combines the historic Black freedom movement, local Latino voting rights history and contemporary art, is open Wed-Sun 11-4 PM at 37 Sudden Street, Watsonville, CA 95076.

Saturday April 18th 2-4 PM
Watsonville Civic Center Building (4th floor Community Room)
275 Main Street
Watsonville, CA 95076

Gallery Contact: Judy Stabile [email protected]
Program Contact: Maria Gitin [email protected]