Read our fall quarterly newsletter for the latest updates from the Latino Policy Forum.
Dear Community,
Like so many, my identity as a Latina and as the child of Mexican immigrants, is a real source of pride and something I love to celebrate. Sharing a history and culture with so many others makes me feel like I belong. And right now, as the Trump administration persecutes our community and violently punishes our state for standing with immigrants, our pride is an important act of resistance.
Latino Unity Day Quinceañera at the Illinois State Capitol on May 8, 2025.
From a young age, my parents taught me to be proud of who I am, where my ancestors came from, and to value my ability to communicate in Spanish. Being bilingual is a gift that all children, not just immigrants, deserve. Earlier this year, the Latino Policy Forum led a successful effort to pass a bill that would help expand dual language programs throughout public schools in Illinois. These programs, where monolingual English-speaking children and English Learners are taught side-by-side, help to foster respect for immigrant communities, help English Learners feel like they belong, and equip all students for future academic and professional success. If you would like to learn more about how to establish or expand dual language programs in your school district, check our new resource, Expanding Dual Language Education: A Tool for Parents & Educators, available in English and Spanish. If you would like to host an in-person or virtual workshop on Dual Language Education or the Illinois Seal of Biliteracy, please reach out to our Community Engagement Manager, Brian Herrera.
In September, I had the honor of celebrating the 2025 graduates of our Multicultural Leadership Academy (MLA). These 25 community leaders join a powerful network of more than 230 multicultural leaders dedicated to building Black and Latino unity and creating meaningful change in communities across Illinois. I often reflect on how much I would have valued a space like MLA earlier in my own career and belonging to a community of leaders that rises together and builds our collective power. MLA is truly a one-of-a-kind professional development opportunity that is a must for any community leader who is looking to elevate their impact. If you’re interested in learning more or being a part of next year’s cohort, fill out our interest form. You’ll be the first to know when applications for the 2026 cohort open.
And finally, I invite you to be in community with us at Latinos on the Move on Friday, October 24. LOTM is an opportunity to come together to celebrate the contributions, beauty and strength of our community and get energized for the work ahead. Plus, I’m honored to share that Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez will be our keynote speaker. Tickets are still available, so please register today! Every celebration of our shared identity sends a strong message that Latinos are more unified than ever, our pride can never be taken away, and that we are here to stay.
I hope to see you there.
Sinceramente,
Linda Xóchitl Tortolero
President & CEO, Latino Policy Forum