Excitement in Bryan as Two Generations Vote for the First Time
Bryan, Texas – In a heartwarming and inspiring moment, a newly eligible voter from Bryan and her great-grandmother made history by voting for the very first time this week. At 77 years old, Julia Lopez has called Bryan her home for her entire life, but until just two days ago, she had never participated in an election. Life always seemed to get in the way, or so she thought. “It was something that I was, like, always busy, and then I didn’t think about it, and I just let it go by,” Lopez shared, her voice filled with nostalgia and newfound determination.
This year was different, however. The spark that ignited Lopez’s shift from disinterest to eagerness came from none other than her great-granddaughter, Jazlynn Gomez, who turned 18 in September. Jazlynn, excited about taking her first steps into civic duty, was determined to make this important act a family affair. “She’s never wanted to until I turned 18, and [I] said that I was going to vote, and she up and goes and votes with me,” Jazlynn explained with excitement bursting in her voice.
Generational Conversations Inspire Action
The decision for Lopez to finally cast her ballot was spurred by several meaningful conversations with Jazlynn. “She just doesn’t understand why I had never done it before. She just kept on saying it’s something important, and she wanted us to do it together,” Lopez recounted, reflecting on the gentle yet persistent encouragement from her great-granddaughter. Finally convinced, Lopez decided that it was time to make her voice heard. Laughing, she added, “She had me convinced real good.”
As the day approached, emotions ran high for both. When they arrived at the polling place, the shared feelings of nervous excitement surrounded them like a warm embrace. “In the car, just the whole way, we were like, ‘Oh my gosh, we‘re actually going to vote for the first time!’” Jazlynn exclaimed, revealing the joyful anticipation they both felt. The moment symbolized not just a milestone for each of them individually but also a profound connection that bridged generations.
A Civic Duty Fulfilled
After successfully voting, the duo took a moment to reflect on their accomplishment and what it meant to them. “Our votes matter. Everyone’s votes matter. So, I’m really happy that we went to go vote,” Jazlynn added, her voice filled with pride. This sentiment is a crucial reminder about the importance of participation in our democracy, emphasizing how every single vote counts.
If you haven’t had your chance to vote yet, don’t worry—there’s still time! Early voting remains open until November 1st, running from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at designated polling locations. Remember, early voting ends this Friday, and Election Day is just around the corner, coming up next Tuesday. There are plenty of resources available to help you navigate this important decision-making process.
As we celebrate stories like Julia and Jazlynn’s, it reminds us all of the fundamental role voting plays in our society. Make sure your voice is heard this election season!
