CHCI Public Policy Conference
The CHCI Public Policy Conference was amazing. The extraordinary group of Latino leaders and distinguished panelists provided insightful and enlightening perspectives on the issues facing Latinos in our communities. As a Fellow, it was mind-blowing to be in the company of accomplished Latino leaders such as U.S. Representative and CHCI Chair Nydia M. Velazquez, Hon. Luis V. Gutierrez, Hon. Jose Serrano, Hon. Grace Napolitano, Hon. Ruben Hinojosa, and Senator Robert Menendez, among others. Senator Robert Menendez's and U.S. Representative Luis V. Gutierrez's passionate speeches on immigration issues and the discrimination and prejudice that still exist towards Latinos in America were moving and inspiring. I felt privileged to have been able to hear their words and exchange of ideas. It was illuminating to hear so many experts speak on a variety of topics such as education, healthcare, and immigration. As I listened to the panelists I realized that this was one part of how public policy is formulated: through open and honest dialogue that moves us forward on a certain issue or topic. The CHCI Conference was an eye-opening experience as well. At times the issues facing the Latino community may seem overwhelming but the conference demonstrates that there are many motivated and talented Latinos out there that can and will bring positive change within our community. As someone who had never attended the CHCI Conference, I walked away with a resurge of confidence that as Latinos we have the strength and perseverance to overcome anything and everything thrown our way.
