Connecticut Advocacy Day Brings “Orgullo Y Poder” to the Capitol

Hispanic Federation recently hosted back-to-back events in Connecticut to examine issues impacting the Latino community, and discuss policy proposals that might be put forth to address disparities in health, education, and economic prosperity.

The day kicked off with our annual Orgullo y Poder Legislative Breakfast, in which guests heard from an impressive bipartisan roster of Connecticut elected officials, who all spoke to the importance of the contributions of the Latino community, and in turn the need for the government to invest in our communities. Speakers included Connecticut General Assembly (CGA) House Majority Leader Rep. Matt Ritter, Speaker of the Rep. House Joe Aresimowicz, Secretary of the State Denise Merrill, Deputy Speaker of the House Rep. Juan Candelaria and CGA Black and Puerto Rican Caucus Chair Rep. Christopher Rosario, among others. All spoke to the central theme of the morning: the orgullo and poder of the rapidly growing and changing Latino communities in Connecticut, and how best to serve them.

Hispanic Federation’s Connecticut member agencies then took their proposals to the offices of nearly 20 offices, meeting with State Representatives and their staff to advocate for policies and investment that will uplift the state’s Latino communities.

“We have serious concerns about the Governor’s proposed budget, and welcome the opportunity to discuss with our representatives the impact it will have on the communities we serve,” said Ingrid Alvarez-DiMarzo, Connecticut State Director, Hispanic Federation. “Policy Day is always an excellent opportunity to collaborate with key stakeholders who share our vision, and engage those who may not in order to find the best path forward for all of Connecticut.”

In collaboration with the Commission on Equity and Opportunity (CEO), Hispanic Federation also co-hosted “Diversity in Public Policy: Policy Day for Communities of Color in Connecticut,” a series of panel discussions focused on achieving equity for communities of color in the budget, through educational reform, and through healthcare and lifestyle changes. Nearly 100 guests heard from distinguished panelists including community advocates, elected officials, and policy experts.

“We’re grateful for our close partnership with CEO,” said Alvarez-DiMarzo. “They are an indispensable ally in the Connecticut General Assembly, and we look forward to many years of continued collaboration on the issues that matter most to our communities of color.”