FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 22, 2024
CONTACT:
Graciela González
Director of Communications, Latino Policy Forum
312-728-4291; ggonzalez@latinopolicyforum.org
Latino Policy Forum Responds to Governor Pritzker’s Proposed Budget
“Investments in the programs and policies important to our community, are investments in the success of this state; what is good for Latinos is good for Illinois.”
CHICAGO — Yesterday, Governor J.B. Pritzker released his proposed state budget for fiscal year 2025 and issued the State of the State address where he outlined his budgetary and policy priorities for the year. Earlier this week, the Forum published its 2024 Springfield Agenda, outlining the policy, budgetary, and administrative issues most important for advancing Latino equity in the state in the areas of education, immigration, and housing.
Latino Policy Forum President and CEO, Sylvia Puente, issued the following statement:
“The Governor’s proposed budget is just that, a proposal, and we look forward to working with the Governor and his administration to improve this budget so it serves the needs of everyone in our state; so that we can all thrive and reap the benefits of our contributions to Illinois.
“We celebrate the Governor’s proposed investment of nearly $182 million in critical assistance for new migrants, but know more investments are needed to support Illinois schools serving newcomer students. We will be taking a much closer look at the proposed budget, especially in the areas of education, immigration, and housing and will be doing a deeper analysis on what it means for Latinos. We look forward to making recommendations and passing a budget that is equitable for all.
“In his speech, the Governor said, ‘our citizens rightfully ask a great deal of their representatives, but they are always willing to give so much of themselves in return…It’s what makes a society strong. It is what has made Illinois great,’ and I can’t help but think about how that statement is especially true about the many generations of Latino immigrants and their families who have also given so much of themselves to Illinois. Investments in the programs and policies important to our community, are investments in the success of this state; what is good for Latinos is good for Illinois.”
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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 www.latinopolicyforum.org