LULAC URGES CAUTION IN MAKING CHANGES TO HISTORICAL PRACTICES OF PROCLAMATIONS RECOGNIZING INDIVIDUALS, GROUPS, AND EVENTS OR ACHIEVEMENTS
Nation's Oldest and Largest Latino Civil Rights Organization Says Actions to Eliminate Selective Proclamations Violates Equal Constitutional Rights
August 22, 2023
For more information, contact David Cruz at (818) 689-9991
davidcruz@lulac.org
August 21, 2023 — The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is issuing a stern call for caution to the Polk County Florida Public Schools concerning their intended changes to issuing proclamations recognizing individuals, groups, events, and achievements within the community. LULAC firmly believes that the planned actions to eliminate selective proclamations will compromise the protection of equal constitutional rights for all residents.
Lydia Medrano, LULAC National Vice-President for the Southeast, emphasizes, "LULAC urges Polk County Public Schools officials to act in the interest of all its residents and stakeholders. We must unify in acknowledging the many contributions of people representing all areas of our community. To do anything less is regressive and will only return our state to the past, something LULAC will not allow silently to happen."
The League of United Latin American Citizens stands united against any measures undermining inclusivity and equal recognition of all community members. LULAC Florida State Director Eliseo Santana underscores this stance, "The actions of the Polk County School Board are being watched very carefully, and LULAC stands with the LGBTQ community and all members of our diverse populations who contribute greatly to the vibrancy of our state. To exclude them from a recognition that acknowledges their presence, talents, and rights to live and work in our country is simply wrong, and LULAC opposes it."
LULAC's statement comes in response to an announcement made by Polk County school officials, signaling their consideration of changes to the issuance of proclamations. Specifically, during the school board meeting on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, the Polk County School Board Board is poised to make crucial decisions about its proclamation policy. These proclamations span a wide range of critical topics, from Domestic Violence Abuse Awareness, Special Education Awareness, and Veterans' recognitions to proclamations that acknowledge the diverse identities of the community. These include essential observances such as Hispanic Heritage Month, African American History Month, LGBTQ History Month, Women's History Month, and many others.
Lydia Medrano reiterates LULAC's commitment to safeguarding the rights of all individuals, stating, "LULAC is on watch and will not relent until all communities are celebrated in fulfillment of America's promise."
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