San Antonio Express-News veteran columnist Elaine Ayala narrates a groundbreaking documentary arriving at a pivotal moment in both Texas and U.S. political history. “Our Texas, Our Vote,” premiering October 28 on PBS’s VOCES series just days before the 2024 presidential election, explores the dramatic transformation of Texas into a Latino-majority state and its broader implications for American democracy, as Latino voters emerge as a decisive force in key swing states nationwide. Acclaimed filmmaker Hector Galán directs this timely documentary, produced alongside executive producer Sandie Viquez Pedlow, which takes viewers deep into the largest Latino voter registration drive in Texas history. The film traverses the state, from bustling cities to border towns, revealing how a new generation of activists is reshaping the political landscape. With nearly 12 million Latino residents in Texas and a quarter-million young Texans of color reaching voting age each year, both Democrats and Republicans are racing to capture these crucial votes. Through intimate portraits of young leaders – from progressive strategist Olivia Julianna to conservative councilman Joel Castro – the documentary reveals the diversity of Latino political thought and the sophistication of modern voter outreach. Ayala, whose four-decade journalism career has focused on communities of color and Latino politics, provides thoughtful narration as the film examines historical voter suppression, current mobilization efforts, and the complex issues driving Latino voters to the polls. Her voice guides viewers through stories of grassroots organizing, political awakening, and the growing recognition that, as the film emphasizes, “demographics are not destiny” – Latino voters cannot be taken for granted by either party. “Our Texas, Our Vote” premieres Monday, October 28, 2024, at 10:00 p.m. ET on PBS, with simultaneous streaming available on PBS.org and the PBS app.