Advocacy: 2025 Latino Legislative Day
At El Centro de la Raza, we stand firm in our mission to educate, empower, and uplift our youth as they become the leaders of tomorrow. The fight for justice is not just in the streets—it is in our classrooms, our after-school programs, and in the halls of power where decisions are made about our future.
Through our Roberto Maestas Aftero School Program, ANIMO Pre-Apprentice Program, Hope for Youth, Youth J.O.B. Readiness Training, and our partnerships with high schools like Franklin High School and Thomas Jefferson High School, we are equipping Latino youth with the tools to advocate for themselves and their communities. One of the most powerful ways we do this is by teaching them how laws are made and how they can take part in shaping policies that impact their lives.
Latino Legislative Day 2025 united community leaders, legislators, and youth to advocate for critical issues affecting Latino communities. Attendees heard from influential leaders, including Representative Lillian Ortiz-Self, Governor Bob Ferguson, Attorney General Nick Brown, House Speaker Laurie Jinkins, and Senator Rebecca Saldaña, who emphasized that youth are not just the future—they are the present, and their voices matter now.
This year, youth participants engaged directly in the legislative process, gaining firsthand experience in how democracy works and how they can drive change. With support from the Latino Civic Alliance, they attended impactful sessions on healthcare, gun violence prevention, workforce development, and farmworker rights. Their presence underscored the growing influence of Latino leadership, with notable legislators such as Senator Javier Valdez, Senator Bill Ramos, Senator Adrian Cortes, Senator Tina Orwall, and Representative Edwin Obras standing in solidarity with the community.
Benefits & Resourse Navigation: Impact of Our Resources
Through strong partnerships with our community, we are proud to offer a range of free services that make a real difference in the lives of those we serve. In collaboration with dedicated community partners, we provided vital support, including:
- Bilingual Legal Clinic: Offering legal assistance in multiple languages, ensuring access to justice for all.
- Pet Clinic: Providing essential care and wellness services for pets, helping families maintain their furry companions.
- Tax Help: Offering free tax assistance to help individuals and families navigate complex filing processes and maximize returns.
- Dental Services: Delivering free dental care to promote oral health and well-being for underserved individuals.
These services are part of our ongoing commitment to improving lives and strengthening our community. Together, we’re creating lasting impact through collaboration and compassion.
