Latino artist and activist, Edward James Olmos, an icon in the world of film and television, has always been a steadfast advocate for the Latino community. His dedication to empowering Latinos has taken on a new urgency, not just because of the political climate, but also due to his personal battle with throat cancer—a battle he has triumphantly overcome. Now, with renewed vigor and perspective, Olmos is directing his energy towards mobilizing young Latino voters, urging them to recognize the power of their voice.
For two grueling years, Olmos fought against throat cancer, enduring the rigors of chemotherapy and radiation. "It was a battle that tested every part of me," he shared in an emotional interview with The Latin Times. "We are done with chemotherapy and radiation. Things are OK."
Now in remission, Olmos' survival has given him a deeper appreciation for life and the causes he holds dear. "I've been given a second chance, and I don't intend to waste it," he said. He is promoting his new movie, "One Fast Move," which opened today on Prime Video. "It's exciting to do this knowing that that ordeal is over."
Eddie Olmost, the activist
One of the causes closest to his heart is encouraging young Latinos to vote. Olmos understands the unique power this demographic holds, particularly as their numbers swell in key battleground states. "The future of our country is in the hands of the younger generation, especially young Latinos," he emphasized. "We've seen how rapidly our numbers are growing, and with that growth comes responsibility."
Since 2018, the number of Hispanic eligible voters has increased by 4.7 million, with young, U.S.-born Latinos driving this surge. In crucial states like Nevada and Arizona, these young voters now represent 40% of all newly eligible voters. "I am not going to tell people who to vote for, although I am very clear on who will make the best decisions that will help me and my family," he expressed. "What is important is that people go out and vote, particularly young people."
Olmos is particularly passionate about ensuring that young voters understand the power they hold. "Voting isn't just a right; it's a duty," he said. "Our community has fought hard for this right, and now it's up to the younger generation to make sure those efforts weren't in vain. We can't sit on the sidelines and hope for change. We have to be the change, and that starts with voting."
"One Fast Move," Edward James Olmos new movie
In addition to his activism, Olmos recently returned to the screen with his new film, "One Fast Move," which premiered this Friday on Prime Video. The project, in which he stars alongside AJ Kappa and Maia Reficco, tells the story of a young man reconnecting with his estranged father to pursue his dream of becoming a professional motorcycle racer.
For Olmos, who left behind his love affair with motorcycles at 25 after starting his family, the film's themes of family, resilience, and overcoming obstacles resonate deeply, especially given his recent experiences.
"I loved playing Abel, a character who, like many older people, feels unheard," Olmos said. "But just because we're older doesn't mean we don't have something valuable to say. That's true in life and in this film."
As he continues to promote the film, Olmos is also doubling down on his efforts to engage young Latino voters. "My message is simple," he concluded. "If you care about your future, your family, your community—get out and vote. Don't let others decide for you. Your voice matters, now more than ever."
Edward James Olmos has survived a formidable battle with cancer, and now he's on a mission to ensure that young Latinos don't squander the opportunity to make their voices heard. With his renewed sense of purpose, Olmos is more determined than ever to inspire change, one vote at a time.
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