Latino Advocacy Day

Join the LPRAC and State Representatives Ayala, Aldarondo, Candelaria, Gonzalez, Robles, Rojas, Roldan and Santiago at the State Capitol on Wednesday, March 18, 2009, to make Connecticut's Latino voices heard.
 
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Get Appointed to Serve on State Boards and Commissions

Although they account for roughly 12 percent of the Connecticut population, Latinos continue to be underrepresented on boards and commissions, accounting for just 3.2 percent of all appointments. If you'd like to get involved...
 
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Citizenship Fee Grants Available

The International Institute of Connecticut is now offering grants and interest-free loans to cover the cost of citizenship fees.
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Bills Worth Watching

Get the latest information on legislation being tracked by the LRPAC this session.
 
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E-Noticiero
The Official Newsletter of the Latino and Puerto Rican Affairs Commission
A Word From the Chairman

Though the 2009 legislative session is still young, it has been one of the toughest in recent memory, with the fiscal crisis negatively impacting communities across the state. And though the Latino and Puerto Rican Affairs Commission's very existence has been questioned, we remain stalwart in our commitment to carrying on the Commission's work on behalf of our communities.

Never has that work been more relevant than at a time when budget cuts threaten a disproportionate impact on minority communities. Though we now comprise nearly 12 percent of the state population we we account for just 3.2 percent of appointments to state boards and commissions.

more...
Governor's Proposed Cuts Sting Latino Communities
On Wednesday, February 4, 2009, Governor M. Jodi Rell, presented her proposed  2010-2011 budget in which she attempts to reconcile the state's mounting deficit.

Many of her proposed cuts however, take direct aim at programs and services that directly affect the state's Latinos. Youth employment, community health programs, and government advocates are all being eliminated while  Husky premiums are rising.  It is clear that Governor Rell plans to balance the state budget on the backs of the underserved, underrepresented and vulnerable populations in this state. The community and its leaders cannot allow this to happen.

click here for a synopsis of proposed cuts...
LPRAC Releases Legislative Agenda
The State of Connecticut Latino and Puerto Rican Affairs Commission released it's legislative agenda for the 2009 session. The document outlines the commission's priorities for the upcoming session and provides background on some of the biggest issues affecting Latinos in Connecticut.

Born of the Commission's Socio-Economic Study on the Status of Latinos in Connecticut, released  in March of 2008, the 2009 Legislative Agenda is a direct response to the issues affecting Latino populations in the state as told by the communities themselves. Education, health care access and economic development are chronic problems facing Latinos in the state and the LPRAC will continue to tackle those issues along with support for safety net programs and increased opportunities for entrepreneurs.

click here for a copy of the 2009 Legislative Agenda

Staff Member Lina Lorenzi Named Acting Executive Director
During its February Commission meeting, the LPRAC board voted to appoint Legislative Analyst II, Lina Lorenzi, as acting executive director. Ms. Lorenzi will now be in charge of the day-to-day operations of the Commission and its staff.

A member of the Connecticut Bar Association, Ms. Lorenzi has a Juris Doctor from New York University School of Law and a Bachelors of Science degree in psychology and sociology from Fordham University.

more...                                                    Read a statement from the Acting Director
LPRAC Proposes Formation of Latino Emergency Action Network
The budget proposal unveiled by Governor Rell, can only be described as a direct attack on the underserved, underrepresented and vulnerable populations in this state. Youth employment, community health programs, government advocates are all being eliminated and Husky premiums are rising.  It is clear that the Governor plans to balance the state budget on the backs of the poor.

more...