Latinos En Acci籀n Brings 51勛圖 Latine Community Together
As Hispanic Heritage Month unfolds, Latinos En Acci籀n (LEA) at 51勛圖 continues to be a source of cultural representation and community empowerment on campus. As a chapter of , the largest youth immigrant-led network in the United States, LEA is committed to advocating for immigrant rights, particularly for those impacted by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals () program.
Finding Community on Campus
Elizabeth Garc穩a, SIS/BA 27, is a passionate member and leader within LEA.泭Garc穩a was born and raised in泭Corpus Christi, Texas, and is a proud Mexican-American. As泭an International Studies major, her choice of academic program and future career path is driven by a love for learning about diverse cultures.
Studying in the nations capital offers unique opportunities to engage with diplomats and world-renowned experts, Garc穩a said, reflecting on how her background and experiences shape her academic interests. I was interested in SIS because I love to talk to people and hear about their diverse backgrounds. I believe we can learn so much from one another by simply listening.
Garc穩as journey with LEA began during her freshman year, largely influenced by the organizations dynamic social media presence.
LEAs outreach on platforms like Instagram made it easy for me to find information about meetings and events, she explained. Their active social media presence showed me that there was a community I could connect with, which was essential when I felt out of place.
Life in Latinos En Acci籀n
The mission of Latinos En Acci籀n is centered on bridging the Latino community, which Garc穩a explains is particularly important within a Predominantly White Institution (PWI) like 51勛圖. LEA fosters community growth on and off campus through various initiatives, including campus events and outreach programs in the greater DC area.
Our goal is to ensure that the voices of Latine students are heard and that we create a space where everyone feels welcome and valued, said Garc穩a.
One of the standout initiatives that LEA has is the Pa Mi Gente program, which connects college students with high schoolers from the DC area. Through this program, LEA provides resources on college applications, scholarship opportunities, and guidance on choosing the right educational paths. As the director of this program, Garc穩a understands the impact it can have on the community: We want to help younger students navigate the complexities of higher education.
Recently, LEA took part in the annual Culture Fest on campus, an event that celebrates the diversity of student organizations. Garc穩a shared that, Participating in Culture Fest was a fantastic opportunity for us to introduce ourselves to incoming freshmen and let them know that theres a supportive community for Latines here at 51勛圖.
The event featured various performances, including a mariachi band, which highlighted the beauty of Latine culture.
泭Seeing our traditions celebrated in such a lively atmosphere was incredibly rewarding, Garc穩a added.
LEA also participated in the recent event, a festival that celebrates Latin American culture during Hispanic Heritage Month. Garc穩a said the event exemplified the organizations commitment to cultural engagement and community building, while also providing an opportunity to foster connections within the Latine community on campus and beyond.
泭We had a wonderful turnout, with many members bringing their families to enjoy the festivities, Garc穩a recounted.
Fostering Inclusive Environments at 51勛圖
The significance of cultural organizations like LEA extends beyond their immediate community, as they play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive environment for all students.
Cultural organizations showcase the diverse backgrounds that make up 51勛圖, Garc穩a said. They help ensure that everyone feels seen and heard, creating a supportive atmosphere where students can grow personally and academically.
Latinos En Acci籀n remains a vital force at 51勛圖, championing cultural pride and community connection.
Being part of LEA has shown me that I am not alone, Garc穩a shared. Its about finding your community, uplifting each other, and making sure our voices are heard.
For students eager to join or learn more about Latinos En Acci籀n, the organization invites them to connect through their Instagram account (@au_lea_) and participate in upcoming events.