Power in the Vote: Latino Kansans and the Road to Health Equity

When we show up to the polls, we show up for our familias, our future, and our health

Latino Civic Engagement in Kansas: A Path to Health Equity

Kansas is home to a vibrant and growing Latino population that plays an essential role in the state’s economy and culture. Yet, Latino Kansans remain underrepresented in civic participation, particularly in voting. This lack of representation not only limits political influence but also contributes to disparities in health outcomes.

Latinos in Kansas: A Driving Force

Latinos in Kansas are entrepreneurs, essential workers, educators, and community leaders. Their contributions are critical to the state’s prosperity. However, policies that shape daily life—from healthcare access to education—often fail to reflect Latino needs due to low civic engagement.

Understanding the Numbers

Kansas has a Citizen Voting Age Population (CVAP) of 2,141,059. Of these, 1,692,401 are registered to vote in the counties where they reside, leaving 448,658 eligible Kansans unregistered.

People of color (POC)—including Black, Hispanic, American Indian, and Asian Americans—make up 18% of the CVAP, but represent 33% of unregistered voters, equaling approximately 133,643 individuals. Among them, 61,039 Latinos are not registered at their current address.

Voter turnout and registration among Latinos lag behind other groups. In 2022, 53% of white Kansans voted, compared to 35% of Black, 34% of Asian, and just 26% of Hispanic voters. Registration rates also vary significantly: 86% of white Kansans are registered at their current address, compared to 67% of AANHPI, 64% of Latinos, 56% of African Americans, and 31% of Native Americans.

These figures highlight a major equity gap in political participation, one that directly impacts how resources and services are distributed.

Civic Engagement as a Health Strategy

Research consistently shows that communities with higher voter participation enjoy better public health outcomes. Voting influences decisions on health funding, local clinics, clean air and water policies, mental health services, and more.

For Latinos in Kansas, increased voter participation could mean expanded healthcare options, more culturally competent healthcare providers, stronger maternal health programs, and greater community investment.

The Way Forward

Latinos must be empowered to participate in the democratic process. Voting is not just a civic duty—it is a tool for securing better health and quality of life.

Community organizations, faith leaders, and local advocates play a critical role in boosting registration and turnout. By working together, we can close the participation gap and ensure that Latino voices help shape the future of Kansas.

Conclusion

Latinos are essential to Kansas’s success, yet too many remain on the sidelines of the political process. With over 61,000 Latinos not registered at their current address, targeted outreach and education are crucial.

Civic engagement is a cornerstone of health equity. When Latinos vote, they help create a healthier, more inclusive Kansas for everyone.