Latino Action Council

Latino Action Council

An Invitation for Increasing Latino Influence in Colorado

Latinos in Colorado remain under-represented. Although the Latino Caucus in the Colorado General Assembly has grown in recent years, it still only comprises 13% of the legislature. Many Latinos are politically disaffected. Latino U.S. citizens are less likely to vote than other Coloradans. Latinos are under-counted by the U.S. Census. Biased census data reduces public services and economic opportunities in Colorado’s Latino communities.

Under representation has costly consequences for Colorado Latinos. Latino children are more likely to attend under-resourced, lower performing public schools, especially in urban areas. They are less likely to graduate, and more likely to end up in lower paying jobs. Latino families tend to be segregated into lower priced neighborhoods. They are less likely to own their own homes. They have less access to health care. Older Latinos lack retirement savings.

We know that it is difficult for our organizations, acting alone, to change local, state and federal laws affecting the people they serve. By working together, Colorado’s Latino organizations will improve representation for our communities at all levels.

Please join CLLARO (Colorado Latino Leadership, Advocacy & Research Organization) and the Latino Action Council to strengthen and empower Colorado Latinos through leadership development, advocacy, and public policy affecting our communities.

We welcome your interest and involvement. If you would like more information on how to become a council member, please contact Milo Marquez at milo.marquez@cllaro.org.

The Latino Action Council is a coalition of 90+ Latino lead organizations, Latino leaders, and Latino advocates.

‍During the first year of the Latino Action Council, it enrolled a total of 15 Council members and over 75 Affiliate members. Many of these affiliate members are not simply individuals but represent Latino coalitions across Colorado. The members of the council come from both rural and urban communities throughout the state: Durango; Alamosa; San Luis; La Junta; Pueblo; Colorado Springs; Grand Junction; Montrose; Steamboat Springs; Fort Collins; Greeley; Evans; and the Denver metropolitan area.

The Latino Action Council has established six priorities important to advocate for the Latino community.

1. Increasing Latino voter registration and turnout
2. Providing an equitable public education for all Latino students
3. Providing affordable housing for Latino families
4. Equitable healthcare and accessibility for Latinos
5. Creating a sustainable environment for our Latino community
6. Creating business opportunities for Latino entrepreneurs

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