Connecticut is home to over 500,000 Latinos, who share the double distinction of being part of the youngest and fastest growing community in the state. Following a hugely successful Policy Day last month, Hispanic Federation’s Connecticut State Director, Ingrid Alvarez-DiMarzo led the third annual Orgullo y Poder Connecticut Advocacy Day and Legislative Luncheon.
Each year, community and government leaders gather at the State Capitol to discuss issues of concern to the state’s Latinos residents. Following the luncheon, advocates and leaders meet with state legislators to convey their priorities. This year, the focus was clear: proposed budget cuts. Governor Dannel Malloy’s proposed budget cuts threaten to zero out funding for Latino nonprofits which are central to the vitality of our communities in Connecticut. These nonprofits provide social service programs in key areas including health, education, immigration assistance, and more.
“Our Latino nonprofits are the pillars of our community’s strength and resiliency.” stated José Calderón, President of the Hispanic Federation. “For the 500,000 Latinos who call Connecticut home, these organizations provide care, opportunities, solutions and hope. We urge the Governor and General Assembly to come together to preserve and expand state support for Latino nonprofits as an investment in our state’s economic future.”
Speakers at the luncheon included Secretary of the State Denise Merrill, and Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman. We were also joined by State Representatives Juan Candelaria, Hilda E. Santiago, Art Linares, Christopher Rosario, and many more.
