Ricardo Soria, a 34-year-old business owner, underscores the critical nature of voting and urges Americans to engage in the upcoming election. He asserts that his vote is impactful and views it as a fundamental right and duty. Soria's primary concerns include the economy, climate change, and women's rights. He is particularly focused on safeguarding the Great Lakes and ensuring clean air and water for his community's health. He advises voters to educate themselves on candidates and their policies to make informed choices.
Neighborhood Reporting Lab is supported by the Americana and Kresge Foundations.
Estefania Arellano-Bermudez: What is your name, age, and occupation?
Ricardo Soria: My name is Ricardo Soria, I am 34 years old, and I am a business owner. I own a pop culture store, First Form, specializing in anime, Marvel, DC, and other nerd culture items.
Estefania: Where do you live and work?
Ricardo: I live in Allen Park, Michigan. My store locations are in Southland Center in Taylor, Oakland Mall in Troy, and Toledo, Ohio. I don’t actually work in Detroit, but I do participate in events there.
Estefania: Do you believe your vote makes a difference?
Ricardo: Absolutely, I believe every person’s vote makes a difference. I think it’s integral for Americans to vote, and I encourage everyone to get out and vote, especially in this close election. I believe voting is a fundamental right and responsibility.
Estefania: What are your top three issues that you care most about?
Ricardo: My top three issues are the economy, climate change, and women’s rights. I’m very passionate about protecting the environment and ensuring women have the right to make decisions about their own bodies. These issues are all very important to me.
Estefania: How do climate concerns factor into your voting decisions?
Ricardo: Environmental issues are a high priority for me. I feel the Republican National Convention did not adequately address climate and environmental concerns, focusing more on economic growth. In contrast, the Democratic National Convention had a stronger emphasis on clean energy, protecting natural resources like the Great Lakes, and pursuing sustainable practices. Initiatives like the Green New Deal are very appealing to me.
Estefania: What are the most pressing environmental and health concerns in your community?
Ricardo: As someone living in Michigan, I’m very concerned about protecting the Great Lakes, which hold a significant amount of the world’s fresh water. Ensuring we have clean air and water is crucial, not just for the environment but for the health of our communities, especially our children. I want to see policies and actions that prioritize sustainability and safeguard our natural resources.
Estefania: Do you have any other advice or thoughts you’d like to share with voters?
Ricardo: I would encourage all voters to educate themselves on the candidates, their policies, and the issues. Watch the rallies, listen to the surrogates, and make an informed decision. I believe we need to come together as a united country and consider how our choices impact not just ourselves, but our neighbors as well. Please go out and vote – your vote truly does make a difference.
