Home / News / Press Releases

LULAC CELEBRATES CINCO DE MAYO: DRAWING PARALLELS OF COURAGE AND ADVOCACY

Nation's Oldest and Largest Latino Civil Rights Organization Is Fighting for Justice Across America and Puerto Rico

May 5, 2023
For more information, contact David Cruz at (818) 689-9991
davidcruz@lulac.org

Washington, DC – This Cinco de Mayo, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) stands proud, celebrating the historic bravery and resilience demonstrated by the Mexican defenders at the Battle of Puebla. This significant victory is a powerful symbol of the strength and determination of the Mexican people against seemingly insurmountable odds. Just as they fought for their homeland, LULAC remains committed to advocating for the rights and empowerment of the Latino community in the face of potent challenges.

LULAC National President, Domingo Garcia, emphasizes recognizing the obstacles the Latino community faces today. He states, "LULAC is now facing political forces that are determined to keep Jose and Maria in the shadows or from achieving their full God-given potential, which they earn through their sweat and sacrifice. LULAC understands the urgency of addressing the systemic barriers that hinder progress and stands resolute in its mission to dismantle these injustices," says Garcia.

Emma Lozano, LULAC National Vice-President for Women, sheds light on a pressing concern: the alarming number of missing women, including victims of human trafficking and domestic violence. "We call upon America not to forget and to continue searching for the tens of thousands of women who have fallen prey to these heinous crimes. LULAC is unwavering in its commitment to advocating for justice and safety for all, particularly for those who have suffered at the hands of abusers," she states.

Euler Torres, LULAC National Vice President of the Far West, highlights the plight of forty migrant families in Moapa, Nevada. "These families live in constant danger due to the lack of adequate protection against flash flooding caused by the absence of paved roads and flood control improvements. LULAC hears their pleas and is committed to acting so local authorities address this issue promptly and ensure the safety of these vulnerable families," says Torres.

Photo credit: Delfina Anchondo

Hilda Ramirez, LULAC National Chaplain, speaks about the unresolved case of Daniel Barajas, whose tragic death and disappearance from an Arkansas interstate highway remains shrouded in mystery. "Daniel's death highlights the need for thorough investigations and accountability, especially when local law enforcement troopers were the last people to see him alive. LULAC stands firm in demanding justice for cases like Barajas', where the truth must be unveiled, and the victims' rights must be upheld," she says.

James Fukuda, LULAC National Vice-President for the Northeast, draws attention to the mistreatment of Latino drivers in Westchester County, New Jersey, at the hands of law enforcement. "For years, Latino drivers have been unfairly targeted, stopped, cited, and even arrested, denying them their constitutional rights. This injustice only came to light through data analysis, revealing the extent of the profiling and misinformation perpetuating these discriminatory practices. LULAC demands an end to such mistreatment and stands in solidarity with those affected," says Fukuda.

YouTube/Real World Police

Rafaela Schwan, LULAC Chief Operating Officer adds, “LULAC was founded with the spirit of the military and love for our country. Mexican Americans and other Latinos are very patriotic people, and we share a lasting commitment of service to the our nation. This is the spirit of Puebla.”

Donate

###

About LULAC

The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation's largest and oldest Hispanic civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 1,000 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC's programs, services, and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting the critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit https://lulac.org/