LCLAA Convention Focuses on Latino Political Strength

by James Parks, Aug 5, 2008

The 2008 elections present a unique opportunity for Latino union members to use their growing political strength to make sure candidates address their concerns, which include a high rate of unemployment.

Delegates to the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) biannual convention in Orlando, Fla., Aug. 5–8, will discuss strategies to mobilize Latino voters to take a decisive role in who sits in the White House, Congress and state houses in November. They also will celebrate the AFL-CIO constituency group’s 35th anniversary.

Latinos are a growing electorate in the United States. The Latino population is expected to reach 47.8 million by 2010. Already, Latinos make up more than 14 percent of the nation’s labor force. Every month, some 50,000 young Latinos turn 18 and many hardworking immigrants are becoming citizens and will have an opportunity to vote for the first time. As a result, the Latino vote could be decisive in several key states like Florida, California and Texas. 

At the same time, a recent report released by the Pew Hispanic Center shows Latinos lost 250,000 jobs in the past year, mainly in the area of home construction, which has been the mainstay of job growth for Latino workers, especially those who are immigrants. 

LCLAA President Milton Rosado says it is critical for Latino workers to understand the link between politics and organizing. 

The policies that the incoming Congress establishes in the coming years must include thoughtful immigration reform that addresses workers’ rights. This convention will be a unique opportunity to engage with Latino and labor leaders concerned about advancing progressive policy that benefits both U.S. workers and the U.S. economy. 

High on the Latino political agenda, Rosado says, are the same issues that face all workers: rising unemployment; skyrocketing cost of gas, utilities and food; the mortgage foreclosure crisis; health care reform; education; climate change; immigration; U.S.-Latin American relations; the war in Iraq; and strengthening the voices of working families.  

Under the theme Unidos en Una Voz (United in One Voice), the delegates will focus on ways to build the Latino vote, mobilizing to promote immigrant rights and real immigration reform, climate change and building a foundation for running for public office.

Another major issue will be ensuring that Latino votes are counted in November. Nationwide, Latino voters face harassment, intimidation and unnecessary obstacles to voting, but the problem has been especially acute in Florida. Says Orlando city Commissioner Tony Ortiz:

We must ensure that every voter has the opportunity and the information to participate in the election process. Every vote must count.

Click here to learn more about LCLAA and its convention.

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