Statement on U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Appointments

Hispanic Federation is delighted by the appointments of Catherine Lhamon and Debo Adegbile as Commissioners on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. We are confident they will continue to be champions for social justice on a host of issues affecting the 55 million Latinos living in the United States.

As Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights at the Department of Education, Ms. Lhamon has made a meaningful impact on the access to vital opportunities for Latino students, including Advanced Placement courses and resources for English Language Learners.

Mr. Adegbile’s long record of commitment to civil rights issues including housing discrimination and criminal justice will undoubtedly be an asset to the Commission, and of great importance to communities of color that are disproportionately impacted.

It is more important than ever that we have strong, progressive voices representing our community within the federal government. Hispanic Federation welcomes these appointments and will continue to work with the Commission to protect and advance our nation’s civil rights.