Media Advisory: Community Leaders Urge Early Voting on Vote Early Day

Fresno, CA, 10-28-2025 — The Education and Leadership Foundation (ELF), in partnership with Poder LatinX held a press conference at Fresno City Hall in observance of Vote Early Day activities. The purpose was to encourage eligible voters to mail or return their ballots early and ensure their voices are heard in the November 4 California special elections.

The event emphasized the importance of civic participation and voter readiness, sharing the various resources available to voters who may be voting for the first time. Poder LatinX’s State Director, Norberto Gonzalez, shared, “as we celebrate Vote Early Day, I think about the first time I voted and feel the confidence that, for every election, my vote has made a difference.”

Other community partners participating included United Farm Workers Foundation (UFWF), Services, Immigrant Rights, and Education Network (SIREN), Planned Parenthood, among others, added their encouragement for community members to have their voices heard.

In addition, the press conference included information, in English and Spanish, on the naturalization process and invited eligible persons to apply. said Mario Gonzalez, Executive Director for Education and Leadership Foundation, emphasized the connection between naturalization and the voting process:

“Participating in the electoral process is an important responsibility of being a citizen of this country. We want to invite and encourage those who may be eligible to apply for their citizenship to complete the process and participate in this important civic duty in future elections. ELF is available to provide accredited assistance to individuals seeking naturalization.”

Efforts like these are important tools to engage first-time voters, providing a helpful guide on location of polling places, deadlines to register, and key information related to the electoral process. As Norberto Gonzalez reminded attendees, “Every Election matters, so let's Celebrate Our Voice and Our Vote. Happy Vote Early Day!”

About ELF:  The Education and Leadership Foundation (ELF) is a Fresno-based nonprofit organization dedicated to “empowering underrepresented communities through immigration services, equitable educational opportunities, and social justice.” ELF provides a wide range of programs—including civic engagement initiatives, tutoring and fellowship opportunities, and Department of Justice–recognized immigration services—to help individuals and families thrive.

About Poder Latinx: Poder Latinx is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Latinx communities to build sustained political power and actively participate in democracy. Through comprehensive voter engagement, issue advocacy, and leadership development, we create lasting change and progressive policies that reflect the needs and voices of Latinx voters to win on environmental, economic and immigration justice.