Dallas needs every voice. We must pass Proposition H

As vice chair of the Dallas County Democratic Party and a proud first-generation Salvadoran American, I urge Dallas voters to support Proposition H. This important measure will eliminate the restrictive citizenship and voter registration requirements for serving on key city boards and commissions, allowing everyone who calls Dallas home the opportunity to give their time and talent to building a better city.

Dallas has long prided itself on being a “welcoming city” — a place where diversity is celebrated and everyone has the opportunity to thrive. In 2019, Dallas became the first city in Texas to earn the Certified Welcoming designation, a recognition awarded to cities that demonstrate a commitment to integrating and including immigrants and refugees into the broader community.

This prestigious honor reflects our values as Dallasites to welcome all who wish to call Dallas home and make our city a better place to live. Yet this achievement rings hollow as many of our city boards and commissions remain closed off to a significant portion of our population — residents who contribute to our city’s success but simply do not meet the restrictive requirements to be “qualified voters” or “taxpaying citizens.”

This issue strikes a personal chord with me. As the daughter of an immigrant who worked tirelessly as a seamstress, cleaned homes, cared for children and elderly neighbors, and eventually started her own small business, I’ve seen firsthand how immigrant communities contribute to a vibrant and thriving economy. My uncles — essential workers, specialized carpenters, home renovators and custom tailors — have also built their lives and careers here. The contributions of people like my family are woven into the fabric of this city.

For those who are not aware, boards and commissions are led by volunteers who freely give countless hours of their time to help improve our city. Seats on these boards and commissions often have vacant seats, and it is clear to me that by denying noncitizen residents and others who are not eligible to vote the chance to serve, we are hindering our city’s growth and success. In 2020, the city of Dallas took an important step by removing the citizenship requirement from noncharter boards and commissions.

Now it’s time to finish what was started and ensure consistency across all boards. Proposition H will extend this inclusive policy citywide, fully embracing the values that earned us the Certified Welcoming designation. It’s time to show the world how truly welcoming Dallas is.

America has always been stronger because of the hard work and passion of its immigrants. The same can be said of Dallas. Our boards and commissions are advisory bodies designed to reflect the broad and diverse perspectives of Dallas residents. By eliminating outdated barriers, such as the requirement to be a “qualified voter” or “taxpaying citizen,” we broaden our talent pool, ensuring that the needs of our entire community are heard and that we have the most qualified people in the rooms where decisions are being made.

Proposition H embodies fairness and equality. We know the strength of our democracy lies in broad participation. Passing Proposition H would send a powerful message: Dallas values the contributions of all its residents and is committed to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate in civic life. Just as we fight for the right of every citizen to vote, we must also fight for the right of every resident to serve. Inclusive and representative governance is crucial to the health of our city.

This November, let’s vote FOR Proposition H and take a meaningful step toward a more united, inclusive Dallas.

Jasmin Flores is the vice chair of the Dallas County Democratic Party.

Proposition H: “Shall Chapter IV, Section 5; Chapter XV, Section 3; Chapter XVI, Section 1; and Chapter XVII, Section 2 of the Dallas City Charter be amended by eliminating the requirement that members of the redistricting commission, city plan commission, civil service board, and park and recreation board be registered to vote, qualified voters, or qualified taxpaying citizens?”

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