At 17, Diana Roman wants to become a leader in her community. Across the state, there are hundreds of Hispanics like Diana, waiting to be discovered, mentored and led. But they face many challenges, from economics to education.
"Even though the odds are great, si se puede," you can do it, said Roman, of west Phoenix.
About 250 Valley Latinos attended a downtown luncheon Wednesday to learn about the Arizona Latino Research Enterprise, which will analyze issues facing members of the state's largest minority group.
"The starting point for our community is to define itself rather than have others define us," said Sal Rivera, a co-founder. "The stakes are high."
The group will research community issues through polling and will organize a town hall in October. It hopes to improve housing, education and other quality-of-life issues for Hispanics, while influencing public policy.
That could be the most critical component, said Esteban Escobedo, who fears the passage of Proposition 200 will breed a flurry of anti-Hispanic laws.
"(The Arizona Latino Research Enterprise) is a good offense," the Tempe attorney said after the event. It's a good starting point."
Los Angeles City Councilman Antonio Villaraigosa addressed the crowd, saying, "The Latino agenda is the American agenda."
He compared the Arizona experience with California's: Both have seen dramatic demographic shifts and anti-illegal immigration initiatives. He challenged Hispanics to get involved. |
