Votes casted by Dominican citizens in New York City on Sunday will help determine who will be the next president in the Dominican Republic.

Social justice activist Zenaida Mendez says a major focus in this election are women's abortion rights, lack of educational opportunities and a decline in employment.

Mendez says these issues have hindered economic growth over the years.

"If I have a job, I don't need to leave my country. After you go four to eight years to become an engineer to become an accountant, to become a medical doctor to be an attorney, then you have to leave the country because there is no jobs," said Mendez.

The incumbent Luis Abinader currently leads in the polls over Abel Martinez and Leonel Fernandez.

"We have the right to participate. We have to send a big message. That we matter. We are important to this election," said Mendez.

For more on polling locations click here - Find Your Poll Site | NYC Board of Elections