Defend the Sacred, an Indigenous-led group, is about to host “Skate for Democracy” in Tuba Metropolis, Arizona on Saturday, September 14. The occasion combines skateboarding and heavy metallic music to register younger Indigenous voters forward of the upcoming election.
Based in 2020 by Diné activist Allie Younger, Defend the Sacred goals to extend Native voter participation. The group’s “Journey to the Polls” marketing campaign has advanced from horseback rides to polling locations to now embrace skateboarding, adapting to have interaction youthful generations of Native voters.
Skateboarding’s significance in native communities
Skateboarding has gained recognition in lots of Native communities, notably within the Navajo Nation. Latest years have seen a rise in skate park building throughout reservations, offering younger folks with new areas for gathering and self-expression.
“Skateboarding is a ardour for a lot of of our native younger folks,” Younger instructed Native Information On-line. “It’s nearly getting on the market and using, being part of a group.”
For these new to skateboarding, understanding skate park etiquette and the unwritten guidelines for rookies is essential for a optimistic expertise and group integration.
Occasion particulars
The Skate for Democracy occasion will characteristic:
- A skateboarding competitors at Louise Yellowman County Park beginning at midday MDT
- Three age group classes: 12 and below, 13-17, and 18 and up, with a devoted women’ class
- Free registration and custom-designed shirts for individuals
- A metallic live performance at Greyhills Academy Excessive Faculty Auditorium that includes native bands
Voter registration focus
The occasion marks the start of Defend the Sacred’s voter registration tour throughout rural Navajo Nation communities. Younger emphasised the significance of early registration as a consequence of Arizona’s October 7 deadline.
“We’re targeted on voter registration now as a result of Arizona has an early deadline of October 7, and we wish to make certain our individuals are ready,” Younger said.
Challenges and influence
Arizona’s standing as a battleground state heightens the significance of Native voter participation. With over 400,000 Indigenous folks within the state, mobilizing Native voters may considerably influence election outcomes.
Nevertheless, latest modifications to Arizona’s voting legal guidelines pose further challenges. In 2023, the Supreme Court docket upheld a brand new legislation requiring proof of citizenship for newly registered voters, which Younger describes as “a slap within the face to Indigenous folks.”
Conclusion
By combining skateboarding tradition with voter registration efforts, Defend the Sacred goals to have interaction younger Indigenous voters in a significant approach. The group hopes to remind Native youth of their rising affect and the ability of their vote in shaping illustration.
For these impressed by this occasion to start out skateboarding, it’s vital to pay attention to potential dangers. Understanding the most typical skateboard accidents and their statistics might help new skaters prioritize security whereas having fun with the game.