When NALEO was founded by the late Congressman Edward R. Roybal nearly 50 years ago, he foresaw the need for a unifying national organization that would call on Democrats, Republicans, and independents to come together for the greater good of our country. Congressman Roybal knew that as the Latino community grew in America, so would our political influence. Today, NALEO continues to attract an incredibly diverse constituency of Latino elected and appointed officials who choose to answer the call to serve and put the best interests of the people they represent and the country before partisanship and self-interest.

With an election cycle plagued by some of the most incendiary language and tone we have seen in years, the recent assassination attempt on former President Trump, and tumultuous changes in the campaigns, we are reminded of the fragility of our American tradition of democracy as the way by which we govern ourselves. Latinos and all Americans deserve leaders who are focused on solving our complex challenges instead of trying to score cheap political points, which is why the vitriol in our politics must end.

In the solution-oriented spirit of our Founder and President Emeritus, the late Congressman Edward R. Roybal, we must continuously remind ourselves of why we are here — what we do, why we do it, and what is at stake if we do not. This is why we will continue to provide a safe and respectful place for Latino elected and appointed officials to engage in critical policy discussions, hear from experts, and exchange best practices and ideas around the issues affecting our communities. By prioritizing respectful discourse, an openness to learn from each other, and a genuine commitment to problem-solving, we believe we can improve the lives of our constituents, the Latino community, and all Americans.

We recognize that in today’s political environment, our efforts are more vital than ever. This is why NALEO remains committed to uplifting these values and ideals throughout our programming, including events like the NALEO Annual Conference and the upcoming boot camp for Newly Elected Officials.

As part of the American experiment, our system of government and the trust it needs to function has been hard to build and is easy to lose. It is incumbent on NALEO and all of us to step up and recommit to preserving our democracy and making life better for the people we represent. As the second-largest community in America, Latinos and Latino elected and appointed officials can demonstrate, yet again, that we are at the forefront of American democracy.

We stand ready to do our part. Please join us in these efforts by becoming a NALEO member today.

Claudia M. Frometa
NALEO President

Arturo Vargas
NALEO CEO

Alejandra Sotelo-Solis
NALEO Education Fund Chair