(KTNV 13 Action News) – The battle over immigration reform and several other issues affecting Hispanics has led to the creation of a new Grassroots movement in Nevada.
It’s tough to forget the uproar of the Tea Party or even the small brewing caused by the Coffee Movement. But now entering the ring is a much stronger dose of politics: the Tequila Party.
Irma Aguirre, Secretary/Treasurer of the of the newly-formed Tequila Party says the name of the movement is perfect. It compares their political agenda to the complexities of the authentic Mexican alcoholic drink.
“We are using this as a tool to talk about issues, and the number one issue is the immigration reform problem in the U.S. and how it affects us in Nevada,” said Aguirre.
She is also co-owner of a local Mexican restaurant and has started her own tequila brand. She insists this is no publicity stunt, but rather a very creative way to get results on a polarizing issue where Democrats and Republicans have failed to deliver.
“We are tired of the weak politics,” Aguirre added.
While other activists agree that the Latino voting block hasn’t seen much progress with the immigration debate, they’re not sure this movement would motivate the community to desert their current party affiliations.
“Latinos would like to see more activism and participation in the community. But as far as the Tequila Party, I don’t think Latino voters know a lot about it at this point,” said Artie Blanco, spokesperson for the Mi Familia Vota Organization.
But some feel that the name itself may be an added distraction to the problem.
“We need to rethink the name “Tequila.” It gives the opportunity for people to not take us seriously in matters that are very serious in our community,” said JC Castillo who opposes the idea of a Tequila Party.
Aguirre points out that the party is not an ethnic-based organization and hopes that anyone that identifies themselves or is affected by the immigration topic will join in.
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