Latinos are the fastest growing population making 18% of the entire U.S. population yet remain underrepresented in publicly elected offices; only 1% of all elected officials are currently Latinos. It is imperative to acknowledge that this number is even lower for Latinas elected officials and candidates. Latinos should be active in reshaping the nation’s political landscape, emerging victorious in contests at all levels of office and in both political parties.
The Institute Public Policy Training & Education will be a direct-action progressive organization with hands-on training for grassroots community organizing, leadership development, civic engagement, and policy advocacy. This will be accomplished by increasing the Latino political power and representation at every level of government and building a base of Latino support across Washington State. With this in mind, the Institute of Public Policy, Training & Education will have three components:
1) Public Policy Academy
2) Civics and Public Advocacy
3) Latino Leaders Pipeline.
2) Civics and Public Advocacy
3) Latino Leaders Pipeline.
Institute Liaisons
Nancy Canales
Growing up in a mixed-immigration status family has given me the opportunity to be aware of my privilege and also of those around me. After being born my family moved to Hidalgo, Mexico where we lived for a couple of years before moving back. During the process of my family moving back to the U.S., I was able to understand the reason for our migration; my parents wanted a better future for us. Their decision has inspired me to continue my education in a white-dominated institutional system where I remain Chicana at heart. As a first-generation student, I’m optimistic that my efforts will help many students like me to acquire the necessary tools that Centro Latino’s Institute will provide students to make a difference.
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Adán Espino Jr
Growing up all over the PNW was truly a blessing; I was able to live in Pullman, Tacoma, Oregon, Idaho, and currently reside in Olympia. This experience made me realize the importance and impact that a public servant can make in a community. One of the most rewarding experiences was being part of the change at UW Tacoma. After learning about the housing insecurity issue within our campus, I took on the responsibility as a student lobbyist to engage and learn the “politics” that were having a negative impact on students' educational experiences. Thus, we were able to provide affordable housing access to 34 students immediately as the program was developed and it's now at its full capacity of 174. It is my hope that my story can inspire others to create their own story and use it as a tool to make a change.
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