LULAC 2003 Convention Details Inside!

LULAC Board Meets with Washington Leaders Washington Youth Leadership Seminar Christmas Traditions Giving Back During Christmas LULAC Profi les Mark Lopez news November | December 2002 League of United Latin American Citizens

2000 L Street, NW, Suite 610 TEL: (202) 833-6130 Contents Washington, D.C. 20036 FAX: (202) 833-6135

Letter from National President ...... 3 National President STATE DIRECTORS Feature Article...... 3 Hector M. Flores Mary Fimbres What’s New...... 4 Arizona Calendar ...... 4 Executive Director Robert P. Treviño News from Around the League...... 5 Brent Wilkes Arkansas Holiday Special...... 7 Mickie Luna Editor California Youth Corner...... 8 Lorraine Quiroga Policy and Legislation Update...... 9 Christine Pacheco-Koveleski Colorado LULAC Profi le...... 10 NATIONAL OFFICERS Panchita Bello LULAC Scholarship Alumnus Gives Back ...... 14 Hector Flores National President District of Columbia Hispanic Leadership...... 15 Rick Dovalina Armando Pomar LNESC News ...... 16 Immediate Past President Florida Health Corner...... 20 Frank Ortíz Manuel Isquierdo National Treasurer Illinois Manuel Olguín Alicia Ríos National Youth President Indiana Desiderio Pesina Gilbert Sierra VP for the Elderly Iowa Vera Marquez Florentino Camacho, Jr. VP for Women Kansas Fernando Escabí Cesar Martínez VP for Youth Massachusetts Juan B. García Augustin Sanchez VP for Young Adults Michigan Richard Fimbres Tencha Vasquez Wilcox VP for Far West Missouri Blanca Vargas Carmen Ramos VP for Midwest Nevada Laura Medrano Frank Córdova VP for Northeast New Mexico Elsie Valdes Wilfredo Santiago-Valiente VP for Southeast New York Rosa Rosales Haydée Rivera VP for Southwest Puerto Rico Santa Claus with Ramon Medina, IV. Ray Velarde Ruth Valverde National Legal Advisor Tennessee Margaret Moran One-year subscription price is $24. Single copies are $4.50. Texas LULAC members receive a complimentary subscription. The Carlos Mauricio Alarcón publication encourages LULAC members to submit articles Virginia and photos for inclusion in future issues. Once submitted, articles are property of the LULAC News and may be subject Gregorio Montoto Wisconsin to editing.

© LULAC National Offi ce Advertising rates for LULAC News are available by contact- LULAC News is published bimonthly by the national offi ce of the League of United ing the LULAC National Offi ce in Washington, DC, at (202) Latin American Citizens. 833-6130.

2 news SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2002 A MESSAGE Headline from the President LULAC Board Meets with Leaders in Washington, D.C. ecently, the LULAC National President and Board met in Washington, D.C. ear Brothers and Sisters of LULAC, Rwith national leaders in order to per- suade them to take action on issues of critical With the holidays approaching, we importance to the Hispanic community. are mindful of the meaning of Christ- First on the agenda was a press confer- Dmas. Christmas is a time to renew our ence lead by LULAC National President, commitment to helping others less fortunate than Hector Flores. Mr. Flores was joined by ourselves. As you read stories in the LULAC News Congressional Representatives Rubén Hino- of how LULAC members give back to their com- josa, Ciro Rodriguez, Grace Napolitano and munities we hope that you will become inspired Joseph Crowley, who each made persuasive to continue in this rich tradition. arguments for the improvement of His- One important way to help others is to get panic education. Statements were directed involved in advocacy work. I encourage each of you to join in the fi ght for important legisla- toward the Bush administration, calling for tion that affects Hispanics nationwide. For instance, we need to continue to pressure this improved education and the passage of the administration and congress to pass the DREAM Act, legislation that would provide the Student Adjustment Act – a bill that would opportunity for children of immigrants to obtain legal status if they meet certain academic permit undocumented students to obtain criteria. In addition, we must continue to ask our leaders to reauthorize the National Farm- a college education by granting them per- workers Job Program. manent legal residency if at the time of ap- We look forward to working with congress next year, especially now that we have added plication they are enrolled in the 7th grade three more Hispanics to the ranks. These victories are due in large part to the many LULAC or higher and are of good moral character. members that worked hard to get out the Hispanic vote. While the fi nal numbers are not in The conference was well-attended, with yet, we believe that more Hispanics went to the polls this year than in previous years. There over 50 students from around the nation in are still many Hispanics, however; that need to be reminded of the importance of voting. We attendance who were here participating in must continue to encourage people to participate in our democracy and exercise their right the LULAC Washington Youth Leadership to vote. Summit. As the year 2002 ends, we can look back on another successful year for LULAC. We have much to be thankful for this past year. We had one of the best national conventions in the Continued on page 11. League’s history and we continued to grow our membership. We are excited about next year’s convention which will be in held in beautiful Orlando, Florida next June. This convention promises to be one of our best yet with a variety of important speakers, insightful workshops and top notch entertainment. I hope that all of you will be able to attend and celebrate LULAC’s 74th successful year. Finally, we hope that you will enjoy the new look for the LULAC News. We believe this new layout provides a better quality product for our members.

God Bless and Feliz Navidad!

Hector M. Flores President George W. Bush with Hector LULAC National President Flores, LULAC National President at the White House.

WWW.LULAC.ORG 3 WHAT’S NEW

National Hispana Orlando Hispanic Leadership Institute Chamber of Commerce LULAC Calendar Wins National Award

■ Tribute to Teófi lo Espinoza ecently, the Hispanic Chamber Date: Dec. 14, 2002 of Commerce of Central Florida Venue: Doctors Nursing R(HCCCF) was the recipient of the Home, 909 White Rock Trail, “Large Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Dallas, TX of the Year” regional and national awards at Time: 10:30 a.m. this year’s United States Hispanic Chamber For more information call of Commerce 23rd Annual National Con- Christine Bobadilla at (214) vention and Business Expo. The event took 219-2133. place in Los Angeles, California in October of this year. ■ Women’s Summit in All U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce California (USHCC) members in good standing were Jan 10-11, 2003 eligible to submit nominations for the Re- Cristína Saralegui with Brent Wilkes, LULAC Monterrey, CA gional and National Awards. The HCCCF, National Executive Director. $65 for both nights, Satur- an Orlando based chapter, was selected by an day only $50 at the Hilton. independent panel of experts. Entries were Contact Mickie Luna, evaluated based on major accomplishments, his year the National Hispana Leader- California State Director quality of service, innovation of programs ship Institute (NHLI) celebrated its 15th (831)637-1342 or Rosie or services offered, measurable results and Tanniversary in Orlando, Florida. The Murillo, Deputy Director opportunities offered to the Hispanic busi- purpose of the NHLI is to develop Hispanas for Women for California ness community. These awards are given as ethical leaders through training, profes- 831-786-8689 or email annually to chambers, which have attained sional development, relationship building [email protected] or contributed to business excellence in an and community-and-world activism. The www.californialulac.org extraordinary manner. NHLI works to “break the glass ceiling” for The awards received pay tribute to the il- Hispanas and assist them in reaching their ■ California’s 2nd Annual lustrious achievements and innovations of career goals. Legislative Gala Hispanics that have signifi cantly impacted This year’s National Mujer Award went DATE: February 19, 2003 the economic development of our nation’s to Cristína Saralegui, a 30-year veteran TIME: 6:30pm - 10:00 pm communities. “The national award is a tes- journalist, who not only has received ten LOCATION: Holiday Inn, tament to the hard work of our past presi- Emmys for “The Cristína Show” but also Cost: $100 per person dents, board of directors, our Vice President co-publishes a monthly magazine called Contact Mickie Luna at 831- Ada Rodríguez, our staff and members, who Cristína La Revista. Cristína, along with her 637-1342 or David Rodriguez are the true role models of the Hispanic husband, created the Arriba la Vida/Up With at 805-639-0846 business community,” said Mario A. García, Life Foundation, which is dedicated to AIDS HCCCF Chairman. awareness and education among Hispanics. ■ LULAC National Gala Sonia Gutierrez received the Regional March 11, 2003 Welcome New Mujer Award this year. Ms. Gutierrez is the Contact Carlos Zapata for Councils! Executive Director of the Carlos Rosario In- more information at 202-833- ternational Career Center and Public Char- 6130 or [email protected] ULAC welcomed 32 new councils since ter School, which is the fi rst and only adult the last issue of LULAC News. Califor- charter school in the nation. Ms. Gutierrez ■ LULAC National Lnia gained 4; Florida gained 2; and was relentless in raising funds and estab- Convention Texas took the lead with 11 new councils and lishing the center which now provides over June 16-21, 2003 12 new Young Adult councils. Three more 1,500 students annually with programs that Orlando, Florida for more in- are expected to come in during November, include: English as a second language, GED, formation see www.lulac.org one of which will be a Young Adult council. citizenship and leadership training. or call 202-833-6130 or Keep up the great work! 1-866-577-0726.

4 news SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2002 NEWS FROM AROUND THE LEAGUE

National Hispanic en (R-FL) updated them about Congress Leadership Summit fall agenda. Several members of President Bush’s cabinet addressed the Summit’s at- he National Hispanic Leadership tendees, including Housing Secretary Mel Summit is a two-day conference that Martinez, Education Secretary Rod Paige, Tprovides a forum for more than 350 Health and Human Services Secretary Latino participants from across the coun- Tommy Thompson, White House Chief of try to discuss a range of policy issues with Staff Andrew H. Card, Jr. and Counsel to the members of the United States Congress President Alberto R. Gonzales. and the Bush Administration. Participants Richard Fimbres, LULAC’s National were nominated to attend the summit held Far West Vice-President, had the honor of in Washington, D.C. by their congressmen. introducing Surgeon General Richard Car- Several LULAC leaders were nominated mona, a LULAC member, who discussed by their congressmen to attend this event. leadership. U.S. Treasurer Rosario Marín LULAC had representatives from Arkansas, spoke about creating fi nancial security and Hector Barreto, director of the Small Busi- Silvestre Herrera was one of the ness Administration, briefed participants on Congressional Medal of Honor recipients economic security. honored at the event.

about it and set the record straight. The Hispanic War Heroes Congressional Medal of Honor recipients Honored honored were Lucian Adams, St. Die, France, Oct. 28, 1944, Rudy Hernández, Wontong- he Arizona LULAC Silvestre S. Herrera NI, Korea, May 31, 1951, Alfred Rascón, Veterans Council 1087, is very proud to Long Khanh Province, Vietnam, March 16, Tannounce that on September 21, 2002 1996, Louis R. Rocco, Vietnam, May 1970, in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Joseph C. Rodríguez, Near Munye-RI, Korea, Month they hosted a banquet in honor of May 21, 1951, Alejandro Ruíz, Gasukuma the ten surviving Latino Congressional Med- Village, Okinawa, April 28, 1945, Silvestre S. al of Honor recipients. From World War II Herrera, Mertzwiller, France, WWII, 1944 Richard Fimbres, LULAC VP for the Far to Vietnam, these individuals fought proudly and Hana Dávila accepted the award for her West with Richard Carmona, U.S. Surgeon for the United States and nearly died. One recently deceased father Rudolph B. Davila, General. threw himself on top of an enemy grenade, U.S. Army, WW II. To further honor these saving the lives of eight fellow soldiers. An- brave men Council 1087 created a video Nevada, Indiana, Illinois and Arizona. In other streaked up a hill against a barrage of highlighting the Latino Medal of Honor addition SER Jobs for Progress had about bullets and another in true heroic fashion recipients. Videos can be obtained by con- fi ve members attend the summit. held off an advancing horde of infantry and tacting Council 1087. The purpose of the summit was to allow tanks with his machine gun. For their cour- Latino leaders to exchange ideas with the re- age they received the Medal of Honor, the publican leadership. “At this critical time in country’s highest military award. In all 41, Submission Criteria our nation’s history, it is imperative that our Latinos have received the medal, today only nation’s Latino leaders and our federal offi - ten survive. We would like to include as much as pos- cials exchange ideas about the most pressing Throughout our history, Hispanic Ameri- sible in the LULAC News. To ensure quality issues affecting our families, communities cans have enriched the American way of life, and accuracy please be sure to properly label and nation,” said Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison and we recognize the millions of Hispanic all information that you submit. If sending (R-TX), chairperson of the Summit. Americans who have served our country photos, please send high resolution photos Senate Republican Leader Trent Lott (R- proudly. There are many who feel these La- and be sure to provide suffi cient information MS) welcomed the delegates to the recep- tino heroes have been overlooked by history on each photo. tion, and Sen. Pete Domenici (R-NM) and and Hollywood, which is why the Silvestre S. U.S. Reps. Henry Bonilla (R-TX), Lincoln Herrera Council led by Lionel Sanchez and Diaz-Balart (R-FL) and Ileana Ros-Lehtin- Robert Murillo wanted to do something

WWW.LULAC.ORG 5 NEWS FROM AROUND THE LEAGUE

Kudos to Dr. John Arnold and Arizona Christmas Recipe Council 1088 BUNUELOS city, which predates the founding of our -Mexican Puff Pastries- Dr. John Arnold and the members of LU- nation and the many contributions Hispan- 4 eggs LAC Arizona Council 1088 led a member- ics have made to their community over the 1 teaspoon salt ship drive at the Association of Farmworker years. The proclamation was presented 1/4 cup white sugar Opportunities (AFOP) Conference and by Mr. Rick Masson, CEO of the city, on 1 cup white sugar hosted an evening reception. In one night, behalf of Mayor Dr. W.W. Herenton. The 1 teaspoon vegetable oil they added 37 new members on site who proclamation brought together many leaders 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon were approved at the LULAC Arizona state from various Hispanic organizations, which 2 cups all-purpose fl our meeting on October 24th. AFOP is strongly now plan to work together. They expect this 1 cup vegetable oil for frying committed to LULAC’s work and is looking united Hispanic front and new recognition 1 teaspoon baking powder to create new LULAC councils across the by the city of Memphis to lead to more job • In a large bowl combine eggs with country. Council 1088 is one of LULAC’s and business opportunities for the Hispanic 1/4 cup sugar and beat until thick and newest councils and has increased by over community. lemon-colored. Add the oil. Combine 150 members – all farmworkers and local separately 1-1/2 cups of the fl our, the activists. Dr. Arnold will now be travel- baking powder and the salt. Gradually ing to Atlanta where he will speak about Council 263 Holds add this to the egg mixture and beat well. charter schools to the National Education Tailgate Party to Raise • Turn dough out onto a fl oured board Association (NEA) and continue his efforts Scholarship Funds (use remaining 1/2 cup fl our) and knead to increase LULAC membership. thoroughly until dough is smooth. • Shape dough into sixteen balls. Roll Tennessee LULAC each one into a circle about 5 inches Receives Proclamation in diameter. Let stand uncovered on waxed paper for about 10 minutes. • Heat oil in a deep fry pan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Fry circles until golden brown, turning once. Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with sugar/cinnamon mixture. Council 263 members with their Red Raider “guns up” at the council hosted Texas Tech University Homecoming “tailgate party.”

Council 263 in Lubbock, Texas hosted its offi cial Texas Tech University “Homecoming Tailgate Party” on October 19, 2002. The event was held across the football stadium starting fi ve hours prior to the homecom- ing game between Texas Tech University and Missouri University. Council members cooked and provided food, refreshments, music and fun to all LULAC members and members of the “Raiders Rojos,” the Hispan- Rick Masson, CEO of Memphis gives Ruth ic Alumni group at Texas Tech University. Valverde, LULAC State Director of Tennessee Past and present students and faculty from the City of Memphis Proclamation. Texas Tech also attended the event. Although Council 263 and its sponsors provided food Dr. John Arnold, President of Arizona Council Ruth Valverde, LULAC State Director of and refreshments free to all, a “donation 1088 at the Association of Farmworker Tennessee received a proclamation by the jar” was set up to receive donations from Opportunities Conference. Mayor of the City of Memphis on October anyone wanting to donate to the LULAC 15, 2002. The proclamation recognizes for Council 263 Scholarship Fund. The event the fi rst time the Hispanic presence in the was a success!

6 news SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2002 HOLIDAY SPECIAL Navidad in the Hispanic Community By Mabel L. Rodríguez, Intern for the LULAC National Offi ce

The marvel of Latin American culture “lechón asado,” and listening to the musical is especially evident during the Christmas sounds of groups like “La Tuna del Cayey.” holidays. Each Latin American country Even more interesting, for el día de los reyes possesses distinctly graceful traditions for magos on January 6th, children fi ll shoe boxes the Christmas celebration. Thanks to the with grass and leave out bowls of water for wonderful cooperation of our fellow LU- the camels of the “tres reyes magos” (or the LAC families, we are able to share with you three kings) to eat and drink in return for some of our remarkable traditions during gifts and candy. In her native Mexico, she Christmas. tells us how her family attends midnight Tino Camacho, LULAC Kansas State mass and have a posada which includes Director, shares his traditions, “we go to having children dress up like the three wise midnight mass and then go and eat all kinds men; they also have a piñata and baston for of goodies.” the children. In Mexico, on January 6th, Mickie Luna, LULAC State Director for they celebrate with a “rosca de reyes” con- California tells us, “Being a member of a taining a baby Jesus. The person who fi nds traditional Mexican family, our custom is to it will have luck all year. In El Salvador, Mabel Rodríguez, is an intern from University make tamales for Noche Buena and for our Christmas involves placing a nativity scene of California, Davis, where she majors in friends and family. In our home, we have without the baby Jesus under the Christmas Spanish and Italian. She hopes to work for open house on Christmas Eve and many tree. Once the celebration of Noche Buena the United Nations one day. family and friends come over and enjoy the is over and midnight arrives, the baby Jesus tamales.” is placed in the scene. Jessica Rivera, Cor- infamous Swedish meatballs, and ludfi sk, a Another way of celebrating the Christ- porate Diversity Coordinator, originally pasty fi sh sauce. mas holiday is shared by Michigan State Di- from El Salvador explains that her family Whether we are originally from Mexico, rector, Augustin Sanchez who tells us that he gets together to celebrate until four o’clock Sweden, or the United States, the most sig- generally spends Christmas with his family, in the morning to Latin sounds, good food nifi cant Christmas tradition is to be united but as a “LULACer” they invite the LULAC like stuffed chicken, tamales de pollo and with family. It is also wonderful to be able community to their posada (a reenactment “panes,” a sandwich-like entrée made with to live in a country where we can share our of the “Nocha Buena”). They have a party baguette bread, and chicken which are her own traditions while learning about others’ for the children and Michigan LULAC gets family’s favorite. cultural traditions, as well. We hope this together for a Christmas dinner where they In another part of the Latin American wonderful time of happiness and peace also exchange gifts. realm, Lorraine Quiroga, LULAC National spreads and touches each of you and your Our LULAC National Parliamentarian, Communications Manager whose fam- loved ones. Felíz navidad y un próspero año Adrian Rodriguez, shares with us one of his ily is from Peru explains a typical Peruvian nuevo a todos. favorite pastimes “getting a chance to visit Christmas which is similar to that of El Christmas Recipe with family and friends.” He says, “Some- Salvador. Their traditions involve having CHOCOLATE CALIENTE times we get so caught up with our own lives a nativity scene, midnight mass, enjoying Source: Mrs. Victoria Quiroga during the year but Christmas is a time to banana leaf tamales and eating panetone (Lorraine Quiroga’s mamá) focus on those special relationships.” Adrian with hot chocolate after midnight. Several Cinnamon sticks and cloves also mentioned that “Buñuelos [a tortilla- The United States, being a diverse na- ¼ can Hershey’s syrup like pastry] are a tasty treat his family has tion with many foreign contributions from Sugar (as desired) for Christmas.” Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Europe has 2 cups evaporated milk Here at our LULAC National Offi ce, greatly impacted the Christmas traditions 2 cups water to boil other enjoyable Christmas traditions and of many Americans. For example, our • Boil 2 cups of water with cinnamon experiences were shared. Dr. Gabriela Le- National Executive Director, Brent Wilkes sticks and cloves to add fl avor. mus, LULAC Director of Policy and Legis- shared with us that his family usually leaves • Once boiled, add Hershey’s syrup lation, shared with us several traditions she cookies and milk for Santa Claus. In the with the 2 cups of evaporated milk. has experienced through her international morning, the children fi nd proof that Santa • Stir well. If sugar is needed add as journeys. For example, she told us about came because only one half eaten cookie will desired. some traditions from Puerto Rico: “Puerto have been left behind. At Brent’s mother’s Serve hot with panetone. Ricans feast by going house to house, eating house, they eat Swedish dishes, such as the

WWW.LULAC.ORG 7 YOUTH CORNER

Scholarship Recipients LULAC Boot Camp Honored at Reception Honorarium scholar- ships in recognition of LULAC members who have made great contri- butions: Dr. Armando Durán Memorial; Leonel Galindo Educational Merit; Robert Lope Me- morial; Roberto Lugo Special Merit; León Ochoa Senior Memorial; José Ramírez Memorial; Sandra Salinas, Young Adult Member and Antonio Reyes Memo- Event Coordinator with Jose Luis Jimenez, rial; and Gabriel Rivera Jr., Deputy District VIII Young Adults Director. Scholarship recipients in Lubbock, Texas. Outstanding Merit Scholarship. The recipients for this year include: José The University of Houston Young Adult ouncil 263 in Lubbock, Texas hosted Aguayo, Shanee Bernal, Erika DeLeón, Evan- Council held a LULAC "Boot Camp" this its 12th Annual “Scholarship Recipi- gelina Estrada, April Flores, Heather Gamez, past October in Houston, Texas. All LULAC Cents’ Reception” on August 17, 2002 at Erika Hernandez, Natalie Lopez and Steven Young Adults in the State of Texas were invit- the Main Street Center. This annual event Luna. Also honored were Kevin Martínez, ed to attend. Event agenda speakers included recognizes and honors the recipients of the Luz Meléndez, Jessica Mendez, Lizette Orne- Benny Martinez, LULAC National Historian annual scholarships given by the Council. las, Joseph Palacios, Andres Pedroza, Fabián and Mary Ramos, Houston, District Direc- Young family members were especially en- Sanchez, Gabrielle Treviño and Stephanie tor VIII spoke about LULAC’s history; Dr. couraged to attend, in the hopes that they Valdez. Juan Garcia, National VP for Young Adults too will be inspired to work towards higher Lubbock LULAC Council 263 and their discussed the LULAC structure and proto- education. All recipients were from the recipients and families want to thank all the col; Francisco Rodriguez from the offi ce of Lubbock area and most are now enrolled in National Corporate matching partners and District VIII in Houston, discussed Robert's either Texas Tech University or South Plains all the reception sponsors for helping with Rules of Order; Johnny Mata discussed civil College, with a few attending out-of-state a great event and promoting education for rights; and Margaret Moran, LULAC State universities. our youth. Texas Director discussed promoting events Council 263 is one of the original LU- and Community Service. LAC councils to participate in the LULAC The event was organized by Jose Luis Ji- National Scholarship Fund matching funds menez, Jr. Deputy District Director for Dis- programs. This year, local Council 263 funds trict VIII Young Adults from Houston and were matched by ten different national cor- Sandra Salinas LULAC Young Adult mem- porate partners. Six different local business ber. In attendance were Frank Ortiz, LULAC partners were sponsors of this year’s recep- National Treasurer and Joel Lara, LULAC tion which had an attendance of about one Executive Secretary. The Boot Camp was hundred and fi fty persons. Other sponsors very well attended by Young Adult Councils included the “Amigos de LULAC 263,” a from all over the state. Laredo National group of ten local business and corporate Bank donated the venue for the event and sponsors that make annual donations to the the food was provided by the Taco Cabana, Council to help with the different Council La Mexicana and Taqueria Tepatitlan. projects. This year Council 263 gave out eighteen scholarships. This included eight annual “Memorial and Special Honorarium” schol- arships, eight Special Merit scholarships and NASA Astronaut Franklin Chang-Díaz two Merit Scholarships to the Texas Tech presents the Young Woman of the Year University School of Nursing. Council 263 award to Ximena Najar at the National LULAC established the following Memorial and Convention this past June.

8 news SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2002 POLICY and Legislation

The Importance of the National Farmworker Jobs Program By Hector Flores, LULAC National of the Workforce Investment 167. The following provides a brief analysis of the President Speech before the Association of services provided through the NFJP address concerns raised by the NEA: Farmworker Opportunities Convention. not only the needs of the farm workers, but • The new law is far more intrusive and also of the employers who are in need of a prescriptive than any federal education mea- he plight of farm workers is one that trained labor force. The knowledge that sure has ever been. is very close to my heart. When I was a farm workers gain includes labor market • It requires that all public schools test Tyoung boy, I too worked in the fi elds. It data, information pertaining to pesticides, all students every year between third and was then that I realized that the only way to training opportunities, health issues, and eighth grade. Some critics believe that this make a better life for myself and for my fam- legislation among others, assists them in creates an environment where teachers will ily was to get an education and the training making informed decisions that allow them “teach to the test” instead of truly educating necessary to make something of myself. It to stabilize their employment situation and students. is for this reason that I support the restora- prevent the duplication of services. • Some of the remedies for low-perform- tion of the 2003 funding for the National Migrant farm workers will be particularly ing schools can be counterproductive. Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP). If this hard hit should the program be eliminated. • The law raises the expectation for stu- program is eliminated, a wide variety of ser- Without NFJP - which is nationally dents and teachers, yet funding from federal vices that help farm workers and the nation’s administered - governors will be forced to resources to meet these challenges are far agricultural industry would also end. fi nd funding for over two million migrant out of proportion. This program is important to farm farm workers as they travel from one state • It will take money to meet NCLB’s new workers around the nation, and to the to another. Farmworkers, continued on requirements. Reducing class size, ensuring country itself. It is the only job training page 19. a qualifi ed teacher for every student and that program that serves primarily Hispanic all students have access to the books and Americans. The NFJP provides the materials and technology they need to be resources necessary for job training, No Child Left Behind? effective is going to take money. technical assistance and supportive services Will New Legislation Leave including GED classes to empower some Hispanic Children Behind ? Challenges: 5 million farm workers throughout the Hispanic students face tremendous chal- United States. n January 18, 2001, President Bush lenges to high academic achievement. Ac- At our last national convention, we passed signed into law the reauthorization of cording to the 2002 GAO report, Hispanic a national resolution resolving LULAC’s OElementary and Secondary Education children suffer from the highest drop out support of the restoration of funding and Act or the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). rates of any group. Hispanic students who reauthorization of the National Farmworker This new law dramatically changes the fed- attend predominately minority schools are Jobs Program, known as Workforce eral government’s role in the school system. twice as likely to receive instruction from Investment 167 to the tune of $160 million. Many are concerned that this new legisla- unqualifi ed teachers. A large number of The resolution was in reaction to the tion, contrary to its name, leaves children, Hispanic students under-perform, with Department of Labor’s (DOL) proposal including Hispanic children, behind. more than one-third of Latino students of to eliminate this nationally administered high school age enrolled below grade level. farm worker job program from $81 million What is the NCLB? Hispanic students also fall behind non-His- to zero. On the other hand, the DOL has The NCLB is legislation that reautho- panic students in reading, math and science come to the table to work with us and has rizes the (ESEA) – a federal law related to by age 9. Many Hispanic-serving schools are begun to take signifi cant steps to crafting a education in grades pre-K through 12. It facing budget cuts, despite the growth of the better program to serve rural people, farm encourages states and local districts with Hispanic population. workers and other rural poor. standards-based reforms to intensify the The Association for Farmworker efforts with new requirements designed Advocates Take Action: Opportunity Programs is in a unique to close the achievement gap that exists This new legislation moves responsibility position to assist the DOL to enhance their between low-income, minority, and ESL away from the U.S. Congress to the state and one-step programs to increase access for students and more affl uent, usually white local levels. In other words, it leaves it up to farm workers and to do outreach to farm and English profi cient students. advocates at the state and local levels to en- worker communities across the nation. We Many policy makers, educators and the sure that the NCLB is implemented in such at LULAC believe that better outreach can National Education Association (NEA) are a way that it assists Hispanic students. only be accomplished with the continuation concerned that this law may have many negative ramifi cations for students. The

WWW.LULAC.ORG 9 LULAC Profi le

Mark Lopez, Youth VP for the Far West Every issue of LULAC News will profi le a LULAC member that has exhibited strong leadership within LULAC and his or her community. This month we are profi ling, Mark Lopez, Youth Vice President for the Far West and LULAC member since he was 9 years old.

Where and when were you born? What is your motto? I was born on March 20, 1985 in Stock- “Always set high goals for yourself, and ton, California. My Family is origi- never give up on those goals that are worth nally from Ocotlan, Jalisco in Mexico. . reaching for.” What would you characterize as Who do you admire most? your best personality trait? I admire a young woman by the name of I would have to say that I am a strong debater. Katie Dempsey. Whenever I felt as though I was unable to accomplish certain goals, When did you join LULAC? she would be right behind me telling me to, I joined LULAC when I was about 9 years “keep on going, and if you fall, I will be old. right there to catch you.” Thanks to her, I am who I am today. What do you perceive to be the most important Latino issue? What is your most memorable Orlando! The Latino student drop out rate. LULAC moment? There have been lots of memorable mo- Celebrate LULAC’s What is your passion as a LULAC ments in LULAC, yet I would have to say 74th Anniversary in leader? that my most memorable moment would Orlando! My most passionate LULAC cause is to strive be when I got elected into offi ce. At that Excitement builds among for equal rights. moment, I realized that this organiza- LULAC members as we tion was going to give me the chance to prepare for our next convention What compelled you to join make something great of myself, and in beautiful Orlando, Florida. LULAC? to help others in the best way possible. We anticipate a spectacular When I realized how important education is to youth, and especially to the Latino popu- What is your greatest convention next June, which lation. As a member of LULAC, I realized accomplishment? will be held at the exclusive that I could make a difference. I believe Receiving an academic scholarship Wyndham Palace Resort and Spa by being a part of LULAC, I have a chance last year from my high school for re- in the Walt Disney World Resort. to let Latinos around the world know that ceiving the best grades in the class. Included in a full registration is we do have a choice to make something of a pass to Walt Disney World (a ourselves. What are your career plans? $40-50 value). See enclosed To graduate from high school, go to fl ier for more details. What are your goals as a LULAC college and major in corporate law, leader? transfer to law school where I will be- Be sure to sign up by May 1, 2003 At this time, my goal is to help La- come a lawyer, and some day become tino students around the world under- a U.S. Senator, and strive to be the fi rst for the “early bird” discount! stand the importance of an education Latino president of the United States. Individuals purchasing full and what an education will do for them. registrations will receive a $25 discount if payment is made in full by 5/1/03.

10 news SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2002 POLICY and Legislation

LULAC Board Meets with Leaders in Washington, DC

LULAC Board in D.C., continued from page 3. ties for Hispanic small Hispanics; and (3) the issue of pre-clear- businesses. ance for voters. As a result of the meetings, LULAC members Boyd committed to giving LULAC leaders met Stuart Anderson, direct access to the section chiefs when evi- Executive Associate dence of civil rights violations arise in our Commissioner for communities. Policy and Planning LULAC members met with Secretary and Mike Becraft, Mel Martinez and his Chief of Staff, Frank Chief of Staff at the Jimenez at the Department of Housing and Immigration and Urban Development (HUD). Secretary Naturalization Service Martinez expressed a real interest in partner- (INS). LULAC mem- ing with LULAC in order to conduct housing bers asked Anderson workshops in the different Hispanic com- to explain the specifi c munities. The Secretary also said he might plans for INS restruc- be interested in partnering with LULAC LULAC ladies at the White House during the reception. turing. Anderson ex- for employment outreach in the Hispanic plained that at this point they do not know community. Immediately following the press confer- how the restructuring plans will develop At the Department of Education, mem- ence, the LULAC National Board went to because Congress has several bills with dif- bers met with Leslie Sanchez, the Executive the White House for a private reception ferent restructuring plans. LULAC members Director for the White House Initiative on with President Bush. President Bush took asked Anderson about the status of 245(i) Hispanic Excellence. Sanchez explained the the opportunity to speak about the issues – a mechanism for the regularization of the complexity of the No Child Left Behind Act that are on his current agenda – the war and residency process for certain individuals and how she believed certain elements could homeland security. with undocumented status. Unfortunately, assist Hispanic students. LULAC members After the reception, the LULAC National there are no bills that address this issue at expressed the need to help the high Hispanic Board divided into separate groups to meet this time. LULAC took this opportunity to dropout rate through the increased funding with top leaders of various executive agencies voice concerns about local law enforcement of the TRIO and GEAR-UP programs. LU- to press the LULAC policy platform that is of immigration policies, racial profi ling, bor- LAC members took this opportunity to ex- established annually at the national conven- der safety and the guest worker program. press a strong desire to pass the DREAM Act tion. The meetings covered a wide variety of At the Department of Justice (DOJ) and/or the Student Adjustment Act. In ad- topics from health and labor to immigration members met with Ralph Boyd, Assistant dition, LULAC members discussed the need and small business. For instance, LULAC Attorney General for Civil Rights and his to increase the severe under-representation board members had the opportunity to section chiefs for the voting rights, criminal meet with Claude Allen, Deputy Secretary and law enforcement best practices proto- LULAC Board in DC, Continued on page 19. of the Department of Health and Human col sections. LULAC Services (HHS) to discuss LULAC’s platform members asked them on health. One main issue discussed was the to explain several of high percentage of Hispanics that go with- the following issues: out health insurance. Allen agreed to form (1) what DOJ is doing a partnership with LULAC in order to edu- to lessen the impact cate and inform the Hispanic community, of the recent changes especially those located in rural areas, of the to law enforcement agency’s programs and services. and how they affect At the Small Business Administra- the Hispanic com- tion (SBA), members met with Mary Jean munity, such as racial Duran, Director of Interagency Affairs. profi ling; (2) whether Duran explained that SBA funding is frozen DOJ plans to investi- for FY2003 but better management of the gate the recent cases programs is expected. Duran seemed inter- of excessive force ested in forming a partnership with LULAC incidents by police LULAC Board Members outside of the White House. to help spread the word about opportuni- offi cers against

WWW.LULAC.ORG 11 FORD AD

12 news SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2002 NEA AD

WWW.LULAC.ORG 13 LULAC Scholarship Alumnus Gives Back

guidance counselor to help me wade through the confusing “I want to give something and diffi cult process of apply- back to an organization ing for colleges and for obtain- that truly supported me, ing fi nancial aid.” and helped me achieve my That’s when LULAC came goals.” into the picture. Angel learned about LNESC, the educational port that LULAC has given me by providing arm of LULAC that was reach- offi ce space for LULAC so that they may ing out to young Hispanics in continue their programs of outreach and the Kansas City community, education in the Hispanic community.” helping them reach their goals. Angel applied to LNESC and received a LULAC scholarship LNESC Young Readers which enabled him to attend a Success Story the University of Kansas. “At that time, perhaps only fi ve Recently, Mrs. Linda Gutierrez shared with us students from my high school what the Young Readers program has done for graduating class of 470 went her children. to a university. Thanks to the Angel Reyes, Esquire with Hector Flores, LULAC generous scholarships from LULAC and Mr. and Mrs. Gutierrez were National President. LNESC I was able to pursue and obtain my college degree.” concerned about their children’s ngel Reyes has not forgotten those who “The people at LNESC understand low reading scores “When I helped him reach his goals. In fact, the importance of education. In fact, I will learned of the Young Reader’s AAngel is giving back to the very same never forget a particular incident when a program, I thought it might help organization that helped him. LNESC staff person went out of their way my kids, but I had no idea how Thanks to the generosity of Angel and to make sure I obtained my check on time much,” said Mrs. Gutierrez. his law partners, the LULAC president’s of- so that I could get the particular course load Analisa, eight, and James fi ce will now be housed in Angel Reyes’ law I wanted. It was a Christmas gift that I cer- Gutierrez, nine, of Sacramento, offi ce. After being elected this past June, tainly remember to this day.” California, have been enrolled in Hector Flores, LULAC National President LULAC was also there for Angel when the Young Readers program as of needed to relocate the president’s offi ce to he pursued admission to law school. When Dallas where he is based. When Angel, a he was successfully accepted to the presti- last summer and since then both long time LULAC supporter learned of this gious University of Michigan Law School, have jumped a whole reading need he decided that he could make a con- LULAC supported his continuing education level. James, who loves reading tribution. Angel Reyes, founding partner of with scholarship support. Ranger Rick Magazine, is now Angel Reyes & Associates, P.C. and Heygood, Angel’s sister, Carla Reyes, also benefi ted not only top of the Young Readers Orr & Reyes, L.L.P., wanted to give back to from LULAC’s generosity. She was awarded Program, but he is also top of LULAC especially because he himself has ex- scholarships to both undergraduate and his third grade class in reading. perienced fi rst hand the impact that LULAC graduate school. With LULAC and LNESC’s “They now love to read,” added can have on a person’s life. help, she was able to complete a doctorate in Mrs. Gutierrez, “and I must thank “As a young person I wasn’t sure how clinical psychology at the University of Cali- the Young Readers program for someone from my humble background fornia. She is now a professor up for tenure could ever afford to go to college. No one in at the University of Utah. that.” my family had ever attended college, much “My family will never forget how LU- less graduated, and the hurdles of applying LAC and LNESC helped us,” Angel says. “I to colleges seemed small compared to the want to give something back to an organiza- diffi culty of paying for an education once tion that truly supported us, and helped us I got in!” Angel explained. “My high school achieve our goals. I am very happy to be was in the inner city and did not even have a able to return a small portion of the sup-

14 news SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2002 HISPANIC LEADERSHIP Leading the Way

Celebrating the LULAC Recognizes First Hispanic Teófi lo Espinoza for Commissioner of the his Lifetime of Service SEC and served as an executive with the radio eófi lo Espinoza has been recognized broadcasting company at its headquarters as a great leader in the Hispanic com- in Houston, Texas. Mr. Campos began his Tmunity. Despite Mr. Espinoza’s humble career, however, with the Government, serv- background, he has always managed to give ing as an offi cer in the U.S. Air Force. For the back to his community. Mr. Espinoza em- next fi fteen years, he worked in Los Angeles, bodies the spirit of voluntarism, giving self- California for major law fi rms as a corporate lessly to Hispanics for years in the form of transactions/securities lawyer and litigator. service, advice and money. Campos served in the government for a Mr. Espinoza faced discrimination as second time beginning in 1985 as a federal a child when he was refused entrance into prosecutor for several years in the U.S. Attor- elementary school. Mr. Espinoza turned ney’s Offi ce in Los Angeles. He successfully this negative experience into a positive one prosecuted complex and violent narcotics by fi ghting for the rights of Hispanics in this cartels. He also investigated and prosecuted country. major government contractors for fraudu- During his lifetime, Mr. Espinoza lent conduct. After being in private law worked with his family and served in practice for several years, he co-founded El both World Wars, including service under Dorado Communications, Inc. Now, he has General Douglas MacArthur in the South returned to the public sector. Pacifi c. Not only was Mr. Espinoza one of n September 18, 2002, LULAC and Mr. Campos earned his J.D. from Harvard the founders of the League of United Latin several other Hispanic organizations Law School (1979), his MBA from UCLA American Citizens, he also founded La Voz Ohosted a celebration to honor the (1972) and his BS from the U.S. Air Force del Anciano, an organization that protects appointment of Roel Campos as the fi rst Academy (1971). Mr. Campos married the rights of Hispanic senior citizens. Hispanic Commissioner of the Securities his high school sweetheart, Mini Villarreal, Mr. Espinoza never had children of his and Exchange Commission. who now practices medicine in Houston, own, but he sees all Hispanic youth as his Senate Majority Leader Senator Tom Texas. They have two boys, David - 16 and children. Accordingly, Mr. Espinoza has Daschle (D-SD), who recommended Mr. Daniel - 12. given several talks to teenagers about the Campos for the position, spoke at the well- importance of staying in school and off of attended event on the hill. Senator Daschle LULAC Facts drugs and alcohol. explained that he found Mr. Campos be- LULAC plans to recognize Mr. Espinoza cause he “cast a wide net” when looking for The Numbers Tell for his countless contributions to the His- a qualifi ed individual to take on this posi- the Story panic community. LULAC will celebrate tion, instead of sticking to the traditional Mr. Espinoza’s lifetime of achievement on methods of recruitment. • Latinas are 3 times more December 14, 2002, when LULAC will of- Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-MD), Chair- likely to live in poverty than fi cially dedicate the LNESC Dallas center to man of the Senate Committee on Banking, non-Hispanic white women Mr. Espinoza. At that time, LULAC will give Housing and Urban Affairs, pushed for Mr. upon retirement Mr. Espinoza a lifetime membership. All lo- Campos’ confi rmation and gave a moving cal LULAC members are invited to attend speech about Mr. Campos’ humble back- • 25% of Latinas over 65 live in the celebration. Please see the calendar on ground. Mr. Campos grew up in Harlingen, poverty page 4 for details. Texas, born to Mexican-American parents. We are compiling a memory book for the Mr. Campos thanked Senator Daschle for • Only 26% of Latinas have celebration and we encourage all LULAC recommending him to the position and the pension coverage members to send congratulations cards to various Hispanic organizations that pressed Mr. Espinoza at the following address: for his confi rmation. He explained that • Social Security is the only LULAC Executive Offi ce because Senator Daschle thought “outside source of income for 40% of 4245 N Central Expressway of the box” he will now hold this extremely unmarried Latinas over 65 Suite 600C important position. Dallas, TX 75205. Prior to being nominated to the Commis- Sources: OWL - National Older In order for your card to be included in sion, Mr. Campos was one of two principal Women’s League and National the memory book we need to receive all owners of El Dorado Communications Committee on Pay Equity. cards by December 2, 2002.

WWW.LULAC.ORG 15 LNESC NEWS 18th Annual LULAC Washington Youth Leadership Seminar

n October 2, 2002, 51 outstanding underperforming schools you end up Hispanic high school students from punishing the students who need the most Oaround the U.S. and Puerto Rico ar- help. rived in Washington, D.C. to participate in Community Involvement is a critical the 18th Annual LULAC Washington Youth factor in building strong learning environ- Leadership Seminar (WYS). The WYS is ments. Students need positive community an annual program of the LULAC National role models to become motivated to suc- Educational Service Centers, Inc. (LNESC). ceed. They also need caring communities Each August students submit an application to help strengthen their schools by getting and essay for an opportunity to be selected people involved. We support programs that to attend the three-day leadership seminar in encourage community involvement such as the nation’s capital. The WYS is designed to the Federal TRIO programs and we urge provide the student with the opportunity to their expansion. witness fi rsthand how our national govern- Charter Schools: Well managed, charter ment works and to explore current issues we schools can benefi t at-risk students because face as a nation. Julie Solorio and Nancy Rios of Hollister, of their smaller class sizes, fl exibility, and This year’s theme “No Child Left Behind: California pose with Congressman Sam Farr. innovative curriculum. However, public The Status & Direction of Hispanic Educa- school dollars should not be used to fund tion” generated great enthusiasm among backgrounds, which adds to the overall charter schools if that would result in taking the students. Various speakers on the topic strength of the program. After participa- funds from those schools with the greatest included Brent Wilkes, LULAC Executive tion in the program, participants are more needs. Director; Ricardo Martínez, Sr. Legislative confi dent in their role as student leaders and Student Motivation: Students perform Assistant for Congressman Rubén Hinojosa; take on more responsibility upon return to better when they come to school prepared Moira Lenehan-Razzuri & members of the their home communities. and eager to learn. The active support of Hispanic Education Coalition (HEC); Rudy On Wednesday, October 2, 2002, 53 out- teachers, parents and mentors can improve Fernández, Grassroots Development Direc- standing young Hispanic leaders met during student motivation. We support increased tor for the Republican National Commit- the LULAC Washington Youth Leadership funding for programs that motivate students tee; Leslie Sanchez, Executive Director of Seminar to discuss initiatives to improve to succeed. the White House Initiative on Educational education in the Hispanic community. After Parental Involvement: Parental involve- Excellence for Hispanic Americans; and an intensive discussion the students adopted ment in the education process is critical to Colonel Ricardo Aponte, U.S. Air Force. the following positions as representative of improving student performance. Teachers Highlights of the Seminar included a their views: and school administrators need to improve Capitol Hill press conference held by Hec- Academic Standards and Testing: We their efforts to reach out to Hispanic parents tor Flores, LULAC President and members believe that setting of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus; academic standards for a briefi ng by the Bush Administration at what students should the Old Executive Offi ce Building; shaking know and then mea- hands with the President & Mrs. Bush on suring their progress the South Lawn during their departure from through the use of tests the White House; and spending half a day at can be a useful tool to the Pentagon, courtesy of the US Air Force focus resources and who provided insight regarding civilian and attention on underper- uniformed military careers. forming schools. Span- This year’s Washington Youth Seminar ish-speaking students sponsors were the U.S. Army, Shell Oil, and should be tested in Pinnacle West Capital Corporation. Overall, their native language. the WYS was a great success and the students However, testing alone enjoyed their time in Washington, DC. is not the answer and Participants in the LULAC Washington if tests are used to take Youth Leadership Seminar come from a resources away from Participants of the Washington Youth Leadership Seminar. variety of socio-economic and educational

16 news SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2002 LNESC NEWS

gual and migrant education programs to say a few words at the event about how that help to address the particular needs the scholarship has helped her achieve her of many Hispanic students. goals. “Without the support of LNESC and Student Adjustment Act: We strongly companies like Blockbuster, it would have believe that undocumented students who been impossible for me to attain a college graduate from high school should be al- education. I am grateful for their support lowed to legalize their status and attend and encourage them to continue helping state colleges and universities at in-state other students.” tuition rates. Passage of the act is the Sara, the daughter of a Mexican immi- right thing to do and is a wise investment grant, is currently majoring in sociology. She in our future. plans to continue her education by obtaining a masters degree in social work. Her dream Blockbuster Makes is to return to her community and make a a Difference difference. For the past fi ve summers, Sara has worked as a camp director at a park in Blockbuster has been a strong supporter Los Angeles where only sixty percent of all WYS Participants in Washington, D.C. of the LULAC National Education Centers students graduate from high school. She (LNESC) Scholarship Fund. Earlier this became interested in social work because who are less likely to get involved in their year, Blockbuster announced that it would she wants to help others achieve their goals, child’s education because of language and support the LNESC program for a third year, as well. cultural barriers. by providing a $30,000 sponsorship. The Teacher Qualifi cations: It is important funds Blockbuster contributes are matched for public schools to insist on highly quali- by funds raised by participating LULAC Young Readers fi ed teachers. We believe that teacher com- councils. These funds will help more than pensation should be increased in return for 100 promising Hispanic students from New York is excited about improved performance and expectations. around the country attend college. their new Young Readers Increase funding of education: We sup- In November, Blockbuster hosted a re- program in Manhattan. The port a dramatic increase in federal funding ception to celebrate the LNESC/Blockbuster program is sponsored by for schools and programs that serve Hispanic partnership and a recent scholarship recipi- Verizon and is held at the communities. Funds should be directed to ent, Sara Ortega. Dale Monjar, Blockbuster Bloomingdale Elementary the schools that need the most help. Educa- Regional Director of Operations and Pan- School. There are thirty tion funding is the most important invest- chita Bello, LULAC State Director for Wash- participants which consist ment we can make in our country’s future. ington, D.C. both discussed the importance of fi rst, second and third Bilingual and Migrant Education Pro- of this partnership. Sara Ortega, a senior grade dual language grams: We support the expansion of bilin- at George Washington University, decided students. The program began on June 12, 2002 and will end at the end of the school year in 2003. The students meet twice a month for two hours and once a week for six weeks during the summer. The program was made possible through the coordinated efforts of Wilfredo Santiago, LULAC State Director of New York.

Young Readers in New York enjoying music.

WWW.LULAC.ORG 17 LULAC Chevrolet

Trailblazer EXT Raffl e LULAC Partners with Program Freddie Mac LULAC Promotes Financial Literacy

he League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is excited to an- Tnounce a new partnership with Fred- die Mac called CreditSmart Español. Freddie Mac recently joined forces with LULAC to develop a project to actively assist in deliver- ing to consumers, valuable fi nancial literacy and consumer credit education developed by Freddie Mac and others. CreditSmart Español is a consumer ith generous support of General Program Details: education and community-based outreach Motors, LULAC has established a • Only LULAC Councils in good stand- initiative, focused on helping Latino con- Wnational raffl e program for LULAC ing and LNESC Centers can participate. sumers build and maintain good credit. councils interested in raising funds for schol- • Councils must complete and sign The program is designed to help people arships and other council programs and ac- the Raffl e Agreement form indicating the strengthen their credit, make wise fi nan- tivities. LULAC councils can request raffl e number of raffl e tickets requested up to cial decisions and avoid predatory lending tickets for a brand new Chevrolet TrailBlazer 500 tickets. practices. LULAC will hold workshops and EXT from the LULAC National Offi ce and • Raffl e tickets will be mailed to councils distribute materials developed through this sell those tickets for $5.00 each. They will within 5 days of receipt of agreement. partnership. then need to pay the LULAC National Of- • Councils will have until May 31, 2003 The program will provide Hispanics with fi ce only $2.50 for each ticket they sell and to sell raffl e tickets. increased fi nancial literacy awareness and keep the other half as funds for their council • Councils must send $2.50 for each ticket skills within the growing Latino community, programs. The national drawing for a brand sold along with the numbered ticket stub and thereby preparing them for homeownership new Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT will take all unsold tickets to the national offi ce so and other personal fi nancial goals. Ulti- place on June 20, 2003 in Orlando, Florida that they are received by June 6, 2003. mately, this will help more Latinos build a at the 2003 LULAC National Convention • The drawing will take place on Friday, strong fi nancial future. – Presidential Awards Banquet. June 20, 2003 in Orlando, Florida at the While the U.S. Hispanic community 2003 LULAC National Convention and the grows quickly, fi nancial literacy is not keep- winner will be notifi ed. ing pace. Hispanics’ disposable income over the past 10 years has more than doubled, ac- cording to Standard & Poor’s DRI, and it is LULAC Facts expected to double again within the next 10 years. Now is the time to educate Hispanics Election Update about the importance of fi nancial planning so that they may better prepare for their • Bill Richardson becomes fi rst Hispanic governor of New Mexico since 1986. futures.

• Raul Grijalva of Arizona, Linda Sánchez of California and Mario Díaz-Balart of Florida won congressional seats.

• All of the incumbent Hispanic congressional members maintained their seats.

• Tony Sanchez, who got 87% of the Hispanic vote, lost to incumbent Governor Rick Perry in Texas.

• In Colorado, an English-language education amendment was defeated but in Massachusetts a similar measure succeeded.

18 news SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2002 LULAC Board in D.C. FTI Leader Receives Continued from page 11. Lifetime Achievement Award mental Affairs. Barrales explained that President Bush is committed to withdraw- ing the U.S. Navy from Vieques during the month of May of 2003. Barrales stated that he is committed to playing a leadership role in reducing the under-representation of Hispanics in the federal government. The LULAC national board intends to keep the lines of communication open with the cabinet leaders to press issues of impor- tance to the Hispanic community. Farmworkers, Continued from page 9.

Our current economy cannot sustain state funding to serve this population. Many On September 20, 2002, Mrs. Emma states are in debt and would not be able to Moreno, LULAC Director for Federal Re- pick up the void created by the loss of this Haydeé Rivera, LULAC Puerto Rico lations, was presented with a Life Achieve- national program. State Director with Ruben Barrales, ment Award by the United States Hispanic Deputy Assistant to the President If there is any message that is fundamental Leadership Institute. Emma is noted for and Director the OGA. today it is that we need to protect our farm her lifetime commitment and advocacy to workers and we need to secure the nation’s the Hispanic community through her suc- of Hispanics at this agency. Currently, there food supply. Only by restoring the National cessful efforts to ensure an accurate census are only 4.1 Hispanics in the department’s Farmworker Jobs Programs will we be able count of the Hispanic community for the workforce. to meet the new challenges of homeland 2000 Census and for her continuing efforts At the Department of Labor (DOL), security while securing our nation’s ability to ensure the political empowerment and LULAC members met with Secretary Elaine to supply food for all of its inhabitants advancement of Hispanics in every facet Chao. Chao was surprised to learn that since and many of its neighbors. The workers’ of American society. Emma also heads up she has been in offi ce DOL has been falling needs should not be subsumed to process. the LULAC Federal Training Institute, an behind in hiring Hispanics, with numbers They count. The strength of the National intensive program for government and pri- lower now than during her predecessor’s Farworkers Jobs Program is its ability to do vate-sector employee relations that increases term. She explained that being an immigrant outreach to the farm worker – which in turn their effectiveness by developing their man- herself, she understands the importance of guarantees food safety for us all. agement skills. diversity and that she intends to make di- Another positive aspect of the program Emma was born in San Antonio, Texas but versity a priority. Chao was complimentary is its ability to provide culturally and her parents were originally from Mexico. She of the SER Jobs for Progress program and linguistically appropriate services to the left San Antonio at the age of eighteen to join stated that they are increasing funding for neediest and hardest working people in her husband in Europe while he was serving this program. Finally, LULAC members ex- our society. I urge the Bush administration in the U.S. Air Force. She spent twenty-four plained the need to improve occupational to reconsider the decision to eliminate years as a military wife and volunteer man- safety in the agricultural fi elds and in meat the program. We need the White House’s ager for a U.S. Air Force hospital and social packing plants. Chao explained that DOL support and a favorable endorsement of the services offi ces. Later, she worked for the is aggressively pursuing such concerns. program. U.S. Census Bureau for thirty years, mainly LULAC members also discussed the need Recently, I, along with LULAC’s national in the congressional affairs capacity. Upon for restoring funding/training for the farm executive board, went to the White her retirement from the government she worker program but learned that the depart- House and met with President Bush. We accepted a position as the LULAC Director ment was unwilling to make a commitment brought up the importance of the National of Federal Relations in the LULAC National to advance this program at this time. Farmworkers Program. Although we were Offi ce. Emma has three children and two LULAC members also met with Ruben favorably received, we have not yet heard grandchildren and is an avid traveler and Barrales, Deputy Assistant to the President a positive response. We are waiting on the mountain climber. and Director of the Offi ce of Intergovern- president’s affi rmative answer.

WWW.LULAC.ORG 19 HEALTH CORNER Su Salud

World AIDS Day

A Day of Remembrance and To prevent AIDS in our community we a contaminated blood transfusion or blood Compassion must increase knowledge of the impact of clotting factor that was received before 1985. HIV infection. We must also decrease the Hemophiliacs are particularly vulnerable. fear of being around individuals who have Babies born to HIV-positive women can ecember 1st is World AIDS Day. Let contracted the disease. Transmission can be become infected during pregnancy, birth, us look upon our brothers and sisters easily prevented as long as we understand the or breastfeeding. Dwho have been affected by HIV/AIDS disease and are willing to face it head on. Through an extensive body of research with a gentle heart and loving compassion. Perceptions and Misperceptions the CDC demonstrates that there is a clear There are many misconceptions about this Empirical data suggests that many in the link between HIV prevention programs and disease. But, it is just that – a disease to be Latino community who are infected with declines in risk behavior and thus of trans- understood and treated accordingly. It is the HIV virus are ostracized by their fami- mission. Ample scientifi c evidence indicates important that as a community we encour- lies and friends, in part because the realities that prevention programs reduce HIV infec- age each other to be nonjudgmental of those of the disease are often misunderstood. tions and save lives. There is a wide range of who are infected. For example, AIDS cannot be transmitted proven strategies to reduce behaviors that The Centers for Disease Control and via insect bites, sweat, spit, tears, sharing increase the risk of transmitting or acquiring Prevention (CDC) report estimates that utensils, drinking fountains, or toilet seats. the HIV virus. High-risk populations – gay between 800,000 and 900,000 thousand These myths contribute to the stigma that is and bisexual men and intravenous drug persons in the United States are infected associated with the disease. users – witnessed a dramatic decline after with the HIV virus. Approximately 180,000 In studies around the country, it becomes prevention efforts targeting those popula- to 280,000 HIV-positive individuals do not clear that many Latinos simply do not have tion groups were expanded. know they are infected and may be unknow- a basic knowledge about the HIV disease. A What Is LULAC Doing? ingly transmitting the virus. Roughly half study undertaken by La Frontera, University Gabriela Lemus, Director of Policy and of the people living with HIV in the United of Texas Health Science Center at San Anto- Legislation for LULAC and Ernesto Saldaña States are untested, untreated, or both. Half nio, revealed that many Latinos thought that of the National Association of Latino Elected of new infections are among young people, those infected with AIDS would die quickly. and Appointed Offi cials (NALEO) are the many of whom have never been affected by This belief signifi cantly contributes to how national Co-Chairs for the Hispanic Track of AIDS. infected individuals seek care. The fear of the CDC’s AIDS: Act Now! Alliance. The goal Improved treatments have resulted in a confronting the inevitable consequences of of the partnership is to increase awareness of dramatic decline in the progression of HIV being infected accounts in part for the low the AIDS epidemic and reduce the number into AIDS and AIDS related deaths. Yet, we rates of HIV testing in Latino communities of infections nationwide, focusing on those are still in the middle of a signifi cant health nationwide and especially among migrant populations groups that are still witnessing crisis as the number of new HIV infections workers. The result is that many AIDS cases disproportionate numbers of infections: La- each year has not signifi cantly declined in in the Latinos population are identifi ed late tinos, African-Americans, and youth. the past decade. Latinos are particularly af- in the progression of the disease. There are currently 16 member organi- fected by this dreaded and often fatal disease, Latinas feel especially vulnerable if they zations in the partnership and the number and within the Latino community, migrant have children, in large part because of their continues to grow. The major activities of and seasonal farm workers are especially great fear that their children will be taken the Hispanic track include developing a vulnerable. away from them. Workers, especially day culturally competent bilingual HIV/AIDS According to the CDC, by mid-1999, 28 laborers and migrant workers, fear that they resource toolkit on “How to Mobilize in percent of new AIDS cases in the country, will lose their jobs and be unable to meet Latino Communities” to assist local and including Puerto Rico, among Hispanic men their family obligations. national organizations and public and and women were the result of intravenous What Should We Know? private sector leaders to disseminate Part- drug use. For males, 37 percent were due to AIDS is a disease that an individual gets nership messages and obtain information unprotected sexual contact with other males when the HIV virus attacks the body’s im- and resources to fi ght HIV/AIDS in our and 9 percent were because of heterosexual mune systems that prevent infection and communities. contact. In the case of Latinas, 47 percent of disease. It can be transmitted in a variety The partnership is also in the process of AIDS cases were due to heterosexual contact. of ways: unprotected sex with someone developing an AIDS: ACT NOW! Policy Children were predominately at risk, 90 per- who is HIV positive, by sharing a needle Action plan tailored tot he needs of the cent of children with AIDS received it from or syringe to inject drugs or sharing drug Hispanic community that addresses perti- their infected mothers. equipment used to prepare drugs for injec- nent policy issues and recommendations for tion with someone who has HIV, or from testing and access to prevention and health

20 news SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2002 HEALTH CORNER Su Salud

care services including appropriate outreach Get Tested! Get Care! Be Safe! cent) and nearly twice as many Hispanic strategies. For more information on what you can Americans (12 percent) as non-Hispanic What More Can We Do as Individuals? do contact Gabriela Lemus at LULAC at Caucasians (7 percent) were hospitalized Through our LULAC councils we can 202/833-6130 or Thais Macaluso at HMA for asthma in the previous year. help spread the message throughout our Associates at 202/342-0676. For materials Though there is no cure, the preventive communities. We can talk to our parents, concerning HIV prevention in English and approach to asthma management recom- teachers, and churches to inform each other Spanish, go to the CDC National Preven- mended by the NIH guidelines can reduce about this disease. As part of your council’s tion Information Network website at http: symptoms and risk of hospitalization or activities you can: //www.cdcpin.org. death from asthma. Asthma Action America’s Hold Small Group Sessions: Sit down informational materials, the campaign web- with groups of friends and neighbors to site – www.AsthmaActionAmerica.org discuss how to approach talking with your children about risk reduction. Encourage LULAC, Other Leading Maine Council frank discussion amongst yourselves and Organizations Conducts AIDS think of different messages you can relate Challenge Hispanics to: Outreach to your family members. Remember, AIDS “Put Asthma to the Test” Recently, LULAC Council 31000 of does not just affect the young; our elderly Maine contacted the Maine State Bureau are also at risk. OJO: There is growing evi- he League of United Latin America of Health to fi nd out what type of AIDS dence that senior Casanovas are spreading Citizens (LULAC) and a large group outreach is being conducted in the His- the disease in retirement homes. Tof other leading health and civic or- panic community of Maine. The results Εncourage Testing: If you think you ganizations have joined together to launch were negative. John Connors, President know someone who is at risk or who could a new national education campaign to of the council, met with the authorities be practicing risky behavior, encourage improve asthma care in the United States. in charge of HIV education in Maine to them to get tested. The sooner they know Asthma Action America, recently launched explain LULAC’s concerns and what the they are infected, the sooner they can be on a national program focused on educating council could bring to the table. John the path to a healthier lifestyle and prevent Hispanic-American people with asthma; this Connors and two other LULAC mem- further infections. program complements a national campaign, bers, Virginia Marie Rincón and Nelida Encourage comprehensive health which was launched in late September, that Reyes-Burke, participated in a three-day education. Comprehensive sexual health seeks to help the more than 24 million training program. The program was in- education for young people – emphasizing people in the U.S. who have been diagnosed tended to provide AIDS counseling and abstinence, delayed fi rst sexual encounters, with asthma better understand and manage testing. Ms. Reyes-Burke is originally and condom use for those who are sexually the condition. from Peru where she was an AIDS out- active – have proven highly effective. By “Asthma is a debilitating condition that reach coordinator, and Ms. Rincon was educating our youth on the risks of HIV affects entire families and communities,” said a nurse and social worker, and is now a and methods of prevention we can reduce LULAC President Hector Flores. “Knowing minister in Portland. The goal of this HIV risk behaviors without contributing to how to keep asthma under control can make project is to provide culturally sensitive an increase in overall sexual activity. The a huge difference in the quality of life for a education and testing to the Latino com- more they know about the disease, the safer community that is disproportionately affect- munity of Maine. Latino populations in they will be and the more likely they are to ed by this disease. LULAC enthusiastically Maine include Puerto Ricans, Mexicans make better and informed choices. joined Asthma Action America because of the and Dominicans and there are fast- Encourage Compassion: The AIDS vi- critical information it offers for our mem- growing communities from Guatemala, rus carries with it a terrible stigma. People bers and others in Hispanic communities, Honduras, and El Salvador and others. who have become infected are not pariahs. many of whom are affected by asthma.” “Latinos in Maine are frequently HIV/AIDS prevention is only possible According to the most recent data, asthma thought of as migrant workers. While when those who are infected get tested and was responsible for nearly 500,000 hospital- migrant workers certainly make up an are treated. It is possible to live a long life izations and approximately two million important part of the Latino presence with this virus, but, it is only possible if emergency room visits annually in the U.S. in Maine, many Latinos in Maine are one takes care of it. Ask the head of your The rate for emergency department visits middle-class and professional. We need place of worship to offer some words on the due to asthma in 1998 was almost twice as to be sure to reach all Latinos with the importance of compassion and the shedding high for Hispanic Americans (35 percent) message of AIDS,” said John Connors. of ignorance. as for non-Hispanic Caucasians (18 per-

WWW.LULAC.ORG 21 Latinas are Doing LULAC Leader Better in Corporate Addresses the AFOP Christmas is about America, but Still Face Convention. Giving Challenges or the past few years, Rick Dovalina, According to a study undertaken by LULAC Immediate Past President, and Catalyst, a non-profi t advisory organization, Fhis law fi rm, Dovalina & Eureste, L.L.P., women of color have had some success in have found a way to give back to their com- getting ahead in the past few years, but still munity during Christmas time. They have face serious setbacks. The survey tracked a partnered with an organization called Navi- core group of Hispanic, African-American, dad en el Barrio, a non-profi t organization and Asian-American women in management dedicated to the application of private dona- from 1998 to the present to chart their career tions to events designed to improve the life movement. In that time, 57 percent received of the less fortunate in our communities. at least one promotion and earned approxi- Annually, the law fi rm hosts a Christmas mately 37 percent more now than they did party with anywhere from 2,000 to 2,500 in 1998. guests. The party is free of charge but Mentorship was listed as one of the es- everyone is asked to bring a new toy. The sential elements critical in the advancement toys are then distributed to families in the of Latinas and other women of color. The Houston area on Christmas Eve by Latino study found that the more mentors a woman policemen who dress up as Santa Claus and has, the quicker she moves up the corporate Hector Flores, LULAC National President by participants and their families from the ladder. Other important success strategies gave the keynote address at the Association law fi rm. included access to high visibility assign- of Farmworker Opportunities Program The names of the children are derived ments (62%); communicating well (57%); (AFOP) Annual Convention. He received from a list that the Navidad en el Barrio or- and performing over and above expectations a standing ovation for leading LULAC’s ganization provides, usually based on names (57%). support for the restoration of the National given by child protective services. The chil- The study also indicated, however; that Farmworker job Program for the 2003 fi s- dren are selected because they have suffered these women perceived a decline in oppor- cal year. some hardship, such as the loss of a parent or tunities to advancement for senior leader- come from a less fortunate background. ship positions with their current employer. “You can’t imagine the joy on a child’s face Despite the emphasis on diversity policies when he opens the door to see Santa there,” and programs in corporate America, there said Rick Dovalina. Santa calls out the child continues to be barriers. Not all women of by name and hands him a gift. “It is a very color are able to obtain mentors and the lack moving experience, not just for the children of role models from one’s same racial/ethnic but for the observers, as well. It is times like group makes it more diffi cult for a woman that when you realize that to give is truly to of color to learn how to navigate corporate receive,” added Dovalina. work environments. Many young people participate in the act In response to the decline in opportunities, of giving by joining the policemen during Latinas are simply packing up their lap-tops their visits. “Not only does this help children and moving on to companies that respect appreciate what they have and realize that them and value their worth. According to there are many children less fortunate than the study, those who left their companies themselves, it also helps them to remember achieved the most upward movement as that Christmas is about giving and not just measured by the number of promotions receiving,” said Dovalina. they obtained and the increases in salary. Respondents who left their companies starting in 1998 reported an average increase in their salaries of $17,000 more than those who stayed. They also reported fewer barriers to advancement than those women who remained with their companies. Photo by Luis Nuño Briones.

22 news SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2002 The LULAC Corporate Celebrating a Civil Alliance Rights Activist

The LULAC Corporate Alliance is an years. He was elected National President of advisory board of Fortune 500 companies. LULAC during its 50th anniversary year and The Alliance works to foster stronger part- published LULAC’s fi rst comprehensive his- nerships between corporate America and torical publication. He served on President the Hispanic community. The Alliance also Johnson’s Committee on Mexican American provides advice and assistance to the LULAC Affairs, and helped organize and charter nu- organization. Corporations participating in merous Latino organizations, including the the Alliance work with LULAC in developing HNBA (where he served as National Vice national and community-based programs to President in 1977). Ed is also a founding address the needs of the Hispanic commu- member of the Hispanic Bar Association of nity and to ensure that the nation’s future the District of Columbia. work force obtains the necessary education and skills to keep America productive. The following companies have representa- tives who participate in the Alliance: Verizon Ed Peña, Jr., a former LULAC National Shell Oil Company President, was honored at the Hispanic Bar Yum! Bands, Inc. Association of the District of Columbia’s IBM- Workforce Diversity annual Equal Justice Awards Dinner. Ed Metris Companies, Inc. has practiced law in Washington, DC for The Coca Cola Company more than 20 years. He has served as Gen- Sears Roebuck, and Co. eral Counsel to the Congressional Hispanic JC Penny Company, Inc. Caucus Institute since its inception. He also AT&T currently acts as principal in the law fi rm of MasterCard International Eduardo Peña and Associates, PC. Ed has Ford Motor Company been a civil rights activist and volunteer on Recently elected, Bill Richardson will be the Univision Communications, Inc. behalf of Latino related causes for several fi rst Hispanic governor of New Mexico since Levi Strauss Foundation 1986. Coors Brewing Company Philip Morris Management Corporation R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. McDonald’s Corporation PepsiCo, Inc. Chase Bank of Texas ExxonMobil The Walt Disney Company Bank One Corporation BellSouth General Motors Corporation Burger King Corporation SBC Communications, Inc. Anheuser-Busch Companies American Airlines The Proctor & Gamble Company Miller Brewing Company Kraft Foods DaimlerChrysler Corporation

The above women were inducted into the LULAC Women’s Hall of Fame at the LULAC National Convention this past June. Photo by Luis Nuño Briones.

WWW.LULAC.ORG 23 Roel Campos, the fi rst Hispanic SEC Commissioner with Brent Wilkes, LULAC National Executive Director, Senator Tom Daschle (D-SD) and Hector Flores, LULAC National President at the reception celebrating Mr. Campos’ appointment.

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