Latino Policy Forum Condemns Federal Funding Freeze; Urges Community to Contact Congress

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 28, 2025

CONTACT: 
Graciela González
Director of Communications
ggonzalez@latinopolicyforum.org
312-728-4291

Latino Policy Forum Condemns Federal Funding Freeze; Urges Community to Contact Congress

“The reaction to this directive has been rightfully serious and swift. This is an emergency because even a brief pause in services would have a devastating impact on so many lives.

CHICAGO – Today, the Trump Office of Management and Budget (OMB) ordered federal agencies to pause grants, loans, and other financial assistance, including funding that has already been approved by Congress. The directive from the White House is broad and unclear and has caused chaos and confusion among the vast network of agencies, nonprofits and direct service providers who deliver critical services to the most vulnerable people in our communities. Among the services advocates fear are threatened are programs that support education, nutrition assistance, housing assistance, health care for low-income people, including children and pregnant women and support for individuals living with disabilities.

Vice President of Civic Engagement, José Marco-Paredes, issued the following statement on behalf of the Latino Policy Forum:

“All day we have been fielding calls from Acuerdo partners and community members all over the state who are rightfully concerned about what this order means for their organizations, their staff, and the vulnerable families and children for whom their services are a critical lifeline. Our Acuerdo partners are pillars of their communities who make it their responsibility to care for those most in need. Instead of worrying that they won’t be able to open their doors tomorrow, they should have the complete support and cooperation from their federal government to fulfill their missions. 

“The reaction to this directive has been rightfully serious and swift. This is an emergency because even a brief pause in services would have a devastating impact on so many lives. We urge everyone to contact their representatives in U.S. Congress to push back on this extreme action and share their stories. We cannot allow this to happen.”

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About the Latino Policy Forum
The Latino Policy Forum is the only organization in the Chicago area that facilitates the involvement of Latinos at all levels of public decision-making. The Forum conducts analysis to inform, influence and lead. Its goals are to improve education outcomes, advocate for affordable housing, promote just immigration policies, and engage diverse sectors of the community, with an understanding that advancing Latinos advances a shared future. For more information, visit latinopolicyforum.org.

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