SPRINGFIELD – A new coalition in the city is addressing the need for continual support for voting in communities of color.

The Springfield Election Protection Coalition is has been formed by MOCHA (Men of Color Health Awareness), 413Vote, Arise for Social Justice, Springfield No One Leaves, Common Cause – Massachusetts, and MassVOTE.

Lamont Scott of MOCHA explained to Reminder Publishing the coalition is hoping other groups will join them.

The goals of the nonpartisan coalition is to educate voters about how to cast a ballot and ensure that all eligible voters have access to the polls as it is guaranteed by the Constitution and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

He noted that voter turnouts are different in various parts of the city. With the success of the Black Lives Matter movement, Scott said people are more aware of issues facing people of color.

“Turnout in Springfield’s high minority neighborhoods is often in the single digits, while turnout in predominantly white neighborhoods is often two-to-three times greater. If you need help understanding structural racism, this is where to start,” he said.

The coalition is looking to increase voting numbers and is seeking partners in organizations that serve other communities, such as refugees.

“When people of color vote, elected officials begin listening to us. That’s how we begin to address police accountability, health disparities, failing schools, affordable housing, and environmental justice,” Tanisha Arena, executive director, Arise for Social Justice, said in a written statement.

Scott said the coalition would be contacting Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi about identifying inmates at the county’s house of corrections to see who could vote.

The group will be looking to see if people living in homeless shelters are registered and can vote, he said.

Referencing the upcoming election in November, Scott said, “There is a short period to get this done.”

Scott acknowledged the increased participation in the primary election on Sept. 1, but said more can be done to increase the turnout. For more information email Scott at lamontmochaman68@gmai.com or call 206-5670

“We want people to know their power is in voting,” he said.