PARA DIVULGACIÓN INMEDIATA                                                  Contacto:
5 de noviembre de 2014                                                                     Julián Teixeira
                                                                                                           (202) 776-1812
                                                                                                           jteixeira@nclr.org

SESIÓN PARA PRENSA

Expertos discutirán el estado de la inscripción, desafíos y oportunidades para los Hispanos

WASHINGTON, D.C. – El miércoles 12 de noviembre, el Consejo Nacional de la Raza (NCLR, por sus siglas en inglés) auspiciará una sesión informativa para los periodistas en la cual expertos panelistas examinarán la inscripción de los hispanos y los esfuerzos que se necesitan para que ellos renueven su inscripción o se inscriban para obtener su seguro médico bajo el amparo de la Ley de Cuidado de Salud Asequible (Affordable Care Act o ACA, por sus siglas en inglés). La sesión se llevará a cabo a las 12 p.m. en las oficinas de NCLR en 1126 16th Street, NW, en Washington, DC.

Los expertos de NCLR estarán acompañados por una representante del Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de los Estado Unidos y por representantes de otras organizaciones asociadas con NCLR entre las cuales se incluye Families USA. El tema que discutirán es de la inscripción de los hispanos y las barreras que existen para ellos en obtener seguros médicos. La comunidad latina es el sector de la población que revela tener la mayor tasa de personas sin seguro médico. La segunda inscripción de la ley, que continuará abierta del 15 de noviembre de 2014 hasta el 15 de febrero de 2015, puede seguir reduciendo el número de Latinos que faltan seguros médicos.

Los últimos datos publicados por la Oficina del Censo de los Estados Unidos muestran que entre 2012 y 2013 el número de hispanos sin seguro médico disminuyó ligeramente, de 15.6 millones a 15.3 millones. Sin embargo en 2013, la tasa de hispanos sin seguro médico fue el 28.4 por ciento, cifra significativamente más alta que la tasa del 10.2 por ciento para los blancos no hispanos y el 14.5 por ciento a nivel nacional. Los panelistas de la sesión informativa expondrán los factores que contribuyen al alto número de latinos sin seguro médico.

Únase a esta sesión informativa -- solamente abierta a la prensa -- que se llevará a cabo al medio día del miércoles 12 de noviembre. Se servirá un almuerzo a los periodistas que asistan a la reunión; RSVP a Julián Teixeira: jteixeira@nclr.org o (202)776-1812.

AVISO DE PRENSA

QUÉ:                             Inscripción de los hispanos en la Ley de Cuidado de Salud Asequible: desafíos y oportunidades

CUÁNDO:                     Miércoles, 12 de noviembre de 2014
                                     12:00 pm. - 1:00 p.m.

DÓNDE:                        Sede central del NCLR
                                      1126 16th Street, NW
                                      Washington, D.C. 20036

QUIÉNES:                      Delia Pompa, Senior Vice President, Programs, NCLR
                                      Alejandra Gepp, Associate Director, Institute for Hispanic Health, NCLR
                                      Sinsi Hernández-Cansio, Director of Health Equity, Families USA
                                      Steven Lopez, Manager, Health Policy Project, NCLR
                                      Mayra Alvarez, CMS, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
                                      Michelle, LaRue, Senior Manager, Health and Social Service Programs, Casa de Maryland

El Consejo Nacional de la Raza (NCLR) —la organización nacional más grande de apoyo y defensa de los derechos civiles en los Estados Unidos—trabaja para mejorar las oportunidades de los hispanoamericanos. Para obtener más información sobre el NCLR, por favor visite www.nclr.org o síganos en Facebook y Twitter.

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Countdown to Kansas City begins

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—NCLR (National Council of La Raza) today announced highlights of its upcoming 2015 Annual Conference and National Latino Family Expo®, the preeminent events for NCLR and Latinos across the nation, which will take place in Kansas City, Mo., from Saturday, July 11 through Tuesday, July 14 at the Kansas City Convention Center. This Conference will also celebrate Kansas City, Kansas native Janet Murguía, who this year celebrates 10 years as President and CEO of the nation’s largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization.

Every year, NCLR’s Annual Conference and National Latino Family Expo gather the nation’s most influential and prominent voices in the Latino community, as well as those who support NCLR’s efforts to expand opportunities for Hispanic Americans. Among those in attendance are community leaders, activists and volunteers; elected and appointed officials; and leaders of the corporate, philanthropic and academic communities. At Conference attendees have the ultimate opportunity to learn about current issues impacting Latinos and hear from prominent leaders in the arenas of immigration, voting, education, civil rights, health, workforce development and youth leadership.

“NCLR is excited to have Kansas City host our annual gathering. As a native of the area, I have witnessed firsthand how the Latino community has grown and diversified. Hosting our Conference here highlights their presence in my beloved hometown. Whether they are contributing to the cultural panorama, boosting the economy or influencing state and local elections, Latinos are making their impact felt in Kansas City,” said Murguía.

The 2015 NCLR Annual Conference will feature more than 50 workshops, four town halls, the Latinas Brunch, the NCLR Awards Gala and multiple networking opportunities. Toyota is the Conference Title Sponsor, UPS is the National Latino Family Expo Title Sponsor and Sprint is the Host City Sponsor.

“There is no better investment than to truly champion our Hispanic community, and that’s why we are proud to support an organization that aligns with our values and helps empower people through education and access to information that matters,” said Debby Ballard, Director of Community Affairs at Sprint. We hope that together with NCLR we can provide the necessary resources for our Latino families, business owners and leaders to make a difference in the community and to keep on building our version of the American Dream.”

This year’s Conference features a list of impressive speakers, including Mayor Sly James of Kansas City, Mo., Mayor Mark Holland of Kansas City, Ks., presidential candidate and former Governor of Maryland Martin O’Malley, President and CEO of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D–Mo.), U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julian Castro, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker, among many more.

“As a proud partner of NCLR since 2002, Toyota is glad to be once again a title sponsor of this year’s NCLR Annual Conference,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, Vice President of Toyota’s Hispanic Business Strategy and a member of the NCLR Corporate Board of Advisors. “We have tremendous respect for the important work that NCLR does nationwide and look forward to participating in this important gathering of Hispanic leaders.”

“UPS has been a committed partner to NCLR for more than 30 years, and is proud to be the presenting sponsor of their National Latino Family Expo,” said Eduardo Martinez, president of The UPS Foundation. “Our diverse workforce has nearly 435,000 employees globally and we consider it our greatest company strength. UPS promotes diversity and inclusion for all, striving to create opportunity for underserved and under-represented segments of society around the world.”

The NCLR Annual Conference also brings some of the best entertainment in the Latino community. This year we are excited to include Grammy Award winner Pedro Fernández, Grammy Award nominee Frankie Negrón and comedian Cristela Alonzo among the talented lineup.

In addition, all attendees and the Kansas City community are invited to visit the National Latino Family Expo, one of the largest events in the country focused on resources and activities for the whole family, with more than 100 exhibitors showcasing their products and services. From live entertainment and giveaways to health screenings and informative demonstrations, everyone will discover something new in a fun and exciting environment. The Expo, which is free and open to all, will be held at the Kansas City Convention Center from Saturday, July 11 through Monday, July 13.

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Dora and Diego of Nickelodeon, and Hallmark’s Hoops and Yoyo will all be present at this year’s Expo. Visitors can also participate in COPA-NCLR, a dynamic soccer tournament that will be played on the same futsal court used by Sporting Kansas City; meet alumni of the Kansas City Royals and try their hand at pitching; visit the NFL Play 60 course with the Kansas City Chiefs; and attend autograph signings with known figures in sports and entertainment. Another highlight of the National Latino Family Expo is the Health and Fitness/Tu Salud Pavilion, where participants can receive a variety of free health screenings, including dental, cholesterol and vision, to name a few.

Learn more about the 2015 NCLR Annual Conference in Kansas City or register today.

To obtain media credentials for the 2015 NCLR Annual Conference, visit: http://www.nclr.org/index.php/events/nclr_annual_conference/

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Latinos. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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PARA DIVULGACIÓN INMEDIATA                                                  Contacto:
2 de julio de 2015                                                                            Ricky Garza
                                                                                                      (202) 776-1732
                                                                                                      rgarza@nclr.org

WASHINGTON, D.C.—El NCLR (Consejo Nacional de La Raza) anunció hoy que cuatro organizaciones comunitarias se unieron a la Red de Afiliados del NCLR, que consiste de casi 300 organizaciones que trabajan con la comunidad latina en todo el país. Los nuevos miembros son: El Paso Community Action Program Project BRAVO, Inc. de El Paso, Texas; I-Lead Charter School de Reading, Penn.; Promise Arizona de Phoenix, Ariz.; y Unidos Now de Sarasota, Fla.

“Estamos muy contentos de dar la bienvenida a estas cuatro organizaciones que ayudan a ampliar la voz de nuestra comunidad a través de la nación”, dijo Sonia Pérez, vicepresidenta senior de iniciativas estratégicas del NCLR. “Estos nuevos miembros proporcionan servicios esenciales – en las áreas de educación, capacitación laboral y otros – que juegan un papel clave en la vida de miles de familias latinas que están luchando por alcanzar el sueño americano y vivir vidas productivas y exitosas. Además, son líderes que fomentan la participación de los latinos en los temas cívicos y en la política pública. Estamos contentos de poder trabajar en conjunto para abrirle paso a las oportunidades y ayudar a realizar la potencial de nuestra comunidad”.

Para obtener más información sobre estas organizaciones, visite sus páginas de Internet:
• El Paso Community Action Program Project BRAVO, Inc. (www.projectbravo.org)
• I-Lead Charter School (www.i-leadcs.org)
• Promise Arizona (www.promiseaz.org)
• Unidos Now (www.unidosnow.org)

La Red de Afiliados del NCLR está formada por 268 organizaciones comunitarias que proporcionan programas y servicios a millones de estadounidenses de origen hispano y que utilizan su experiencia para dar voz a los retos que enfrentan los latinos. A través de su labor, estas organizaciones no lucrativas proporcionan herramientas educativas para niños y adultos, preparan a los trabajadores para el empleo, facilitan la integración de los inmigrantes en la escuela y la fuerza laboral, inscriben a nuevos votantes, proporcionan servicios de salud, ayudan a las familias a comprar y conservar sus casas y promueven políticas que apoyan el bienestar de las familias latinas.

El NCLR (Consejo Nacional de La Raza) es la organización nacional más grande de apoyo y defensa de los derechos civiles de los hispanos en los Estados Unidos y trabaja para mejorar sus oportunidades. Para más información sobre el NCLR, por favor visite www.nclr.org o síganos en Facebook y Twitter.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                 Contact:
July 2, 2015                                                         Ricky Garza
                                                                           (202) 776-1732
                                                                           rgarza@nclr.org

WASHINGTON, D.C.—NCLR (National Council of La Raza) announced today that four new community-based groups have joined the NCLR Affiliate Network, which has nearly 300 member organizations that work with the Latino community throughout the nation. The new members to the national network include El Paso Community Action Program Project BRAVO, Inc. in El Paso, Texas; I-Lead Charter School in Reading, Penn.; Promise Arizona in Phoenix, Ariz.; and Unidos Now in Sarasota, Fla.

“NCLR is delighted to welcome to our national network these four organizations that serve Latino families and elevate the voice of our community in their states,” said Sonia Pérez, NCLR Senior Vice President, Strategic Initiatives. “These new members uplift youth and families who are striving for the American Dream by providing the critical services that support a productive and successful life: a good education, job training, housing and financial security, among others. America was built by hardworking, visionary leaders like those among NCLR’s Affiliate member organizations. We look forward to working closely with them to continue effectively creating opportunities and advancing the potential and aspirations of our community.”

For more information about NCLR’s new Affiliate organizations:
• El Paso Community Action Program Project BRAVO, Inc. (www.projectbravo.org)
• I-Lead Charter School (www.i-leadcs.org)
• Promise Arizona (www.promiseaz.org)
• Unidos Now (www.unidosnow.org)

NCLR’s Affiliates include 268 community organizations that provide programs and services to millions of Hispanic Americans and use their expertise to give voice to issues facing Latinos. Through their work, these nonprofits provide educational tools for children and adults, prepare workers to enter the labor force, facilitate the integration of immigrants into schools and the workforce, register people to vote, provide health services, help families purchase and stay in their homes, and promote policies that support the well-being of Latino families.

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Democratic Presidential Candidate Hillary Clinton to Speak at
2015 NCLR Annual Conference

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—On Monday, July 13, Democratic presidential candidate and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will address an audience of 2,000 Latino advocates and leaders at the 2015 NCLR (National Council of La Raza) Annual Conference, held at the Kansas City Convention Center.

“We are thrilled that Secretary Clinton will join us to speak to the thousands of Latino community leaders who will gather in Kansas City next week,” said Janet Murguía, President and CEO of NCLR. “We look forward to hearing about her vision for the country and her thoughts on the issues of greatest concern to our community.”

MEDIA ADVISORY

A full list of events and workshops at the 2015 NCLR Annual Conference, to be held July 11–14 in Kansas City, is available online. Press registration is open to reporters with media credentials, free of charge; attendance is limited to reporters who obtain an NCLR press pass. Further details regarding logistics to follow.

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Democratic Presidential Candidate Martin O’Malley to Give Monday Keynote Speech at 2015 NCLR Annual Conference

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—On Monday, July 13, Democratic presidential candidate and former governor of Maryland Martin O’Malley will address Latino advocates and leaders from throughout the nation at the 2015 NCLR (National Council of La Raza) Annual Conference. He will speak at the Monday Luncheon, held 12:30–2:45 p.m., in the Grand Ballroom of the Kansas City Convention Center. The event will also feature remarks from U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julián Castro and Sprint CEO Marcelo Claure.

Governor O’Malley is expected to address issues vital to Latinos and all Americans: jobs and the economy, civil rights, immigration, education and more. A full list of events and workshops at the 2015 NCLR Annual Conference, to be held July 11–14 in Kansas City, is available online. Press registration is open to reporters with media credentials, free of charge; attendance is limited to reporters who obtain an NCLR press pass.

MEDIA ADVISORY

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

# # #
 

PARA DIVULGACIÓN INMMEDIATA                                  Contacto:
6 de julio de 2015                                                               Ricky Garza
                                                                                          (202) 776-1732; rgarza@nclr.org
                                                                                          Oficina de Prensa de NCLR (del 10 al 14 de julio)
                                                                                          (816) 513-5539

COMUNICADO DE PRENSA
Para el sábado 14 de julio de 2015

La Conferencia Anual de NCLR 2015 se Inicia con la Apertura de la Feria Nacional para la Familia Latina®. Este Evento Contará con la Presencia de Miguel Almaguer, Periodista Corresponsal de NBC, y los Discursos de Bienvenida Estarán a Cargo del Gobernador Jay Nixon y los Alcaldes Sly James, Jr. y Mark Holland

KANSAS CITY, Mo.- La Conferencia Anual del Consejo Nacional de La Raza 2015 y la Feria Nacional de la Familia Latina 2015 comenzarán el próximo sábado 14 de julio. Durante estos eventos el público podrá escuchar los discursos del Sr. Jay Nixon, Gobernador de Missouri; el Alcalde de Kansas City, Mo., Sr. Sly James, y el Alcalde de Kansas City, Ka., Sr. Mark Holland. Este fantástico evento de entretenimiento ofrecerá increíbles oportunidades para tomar fotos ya que cabe mencionar que se contará con la presencia de algunas de las estrellas emergentes de la comunidad latina en la música y la comedia, entre ellas: Cristela Alonzo, Nick Guerra, y Frankie Negrón.

El evento de mayor relieve del sábado tendrá lugar en uno de los pabellones de la feria para tratar el tema de la educación superior. Actuará como moderado de la reunión el periodista Miguel Amalguer, corresponsal de noticias nacionales de NBC, y la apertura e este evento estará cargo de la Dra. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, presidenta y CEO de la Fundación Robert Wood Johnson. Se invita a todos los medios de comunicación acreditados a que se unan a nosotros para participar de una mezcla de eventos informativos y de entretenimiento. El registro de periodistas es gratis y está abierto a los miembros de la prensa que deseen asistir a la Conferencia; la lista completa de eventos y talleres estará disponible en línea.

*** GRAN OPORTUNIDAD PARA TOMAR FOTOS ***

Apertura de la Feria Nacional de la Familia Latina
Kansas City Convention Center Exhibit Hall
10:00 am.
Únase a Janet Murguía, Presidenta de NCLR, , así como a Dora la Exploradora de Nickelodeon, uno de los personajes televisivos más queridos de la nación, y a las Tortugas Ninja durante la ceremonia de apertura para dar comienzo a la Feria Nacional de la Familia Latina 2015, el espectáculo más grande de este país para el consumidor latino.

Taller
Una Historia No Contada: Abusos de Tácticas Extremas de la Fuerza Policial y Pérdidas de Vida de Hispanos
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2207
10:45 am-12: 15 pm
Durante este taller se abordará el tema de las experiencias vividas por los latinos debido a los abusivos métodos de la fuerza policial y los pasos necesarios para restablecer la confianza entre la policía y la comunidad latina. El público podrá escuchar a líderes en el campo y obtener materiales de referencia sobre las interacciones de los hispanos con el sistema de justicia penal.

Almuerzo con los Afiliados Nacionales
Kansas City Convention Center Grand Ballroom
12: 45-2: 45 p.m.
Este año, la Dra. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey pronunciará el discurso principal de este almuerzo y durante el mismo se contará con la presencia del Gobernador Jay Nixon, el Alcalde Sly James, Jr. y el Alcalde Mark Holland .quienes pronunciarán discursos de bienvenida a los comensales. El Representante Emanuel Cleaver II (D-Mo.) estará a cargo de la invocación del este encuentro.

Pabellón
Entre y Quédese para Participar en la Discusión Interactiva con la Comunidad sobre Educación
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2505
3: 00 pm a 4: 30 pm
Esta es la primera discusión interactiva de NCLR en la que el galardonado periodista Miguel Almaguer será el moderador y durante el transcurso del evento se tratarán los múltiples desafíos que enfrentan los estudiantes latinos que terminan su escuela primaria e ingresan en las instituciones de educación superior. Se invita que el público escuche los retos que vivieron los estudiantes latinos que por primera vez asistieron a la universidad y a otras personas que personifican la comunidad latina para lograr el Sueño Americano a través de la educación. Los asistentes a esta discusión podrán escuchar a Fernando Rojas, que siendo hijo de inmigrantes mexicanos se graduó con las mejores calificaciones de su curso (distinción de Co-Valedictorian) en la Fullerton Union High School de California,y por ello, fue aceptado por ocho universidades de la Ivy League. Durante la sesión, la audiencia participará de una encuesta en vivo.

Bienvenido a Kansas City
Una Noche de Comedia
Folly Theater, 300 W. 12th Street
5: 30pm a-8: 30 pm
Únase a Cristela Alonzo y Nick Guerra, dos latinos que están conquistando rápidamente el mundo de la comedia en una noche que promete un sin fin de carcajadas y diversión.

Bienvenido a Kansas City
¡Concierto en Vivo!
The Kansas City Power & Light District
9: 00 pm a 11:00 pm
Frankie Negrón, cantante del pop latino pop -- nominado al Premio Grammy -- trae el ritmo de salsa para el "corazón de América" con su explosivo espectáculo que con seguridad hará saltar de sus asientos a su público. El concierto también contará con la actuación de Making Movies; la afamada banda de Kansas City conocida por integrar ritmos latinos durante sus conciertos.

¡GRAN OPORTUNIDAD PARA TOMAR FOTOS!

El Consejo Nacional de La Raza (NCLR, por sus siglas en inglés) –la organización nacional más grande de apoyo y defensa de los derechos civiles de los hispanos en los Estados Unidos– trabaja para mejorar las oportunidades de los estadounidenses hispanos. Para más información sobre NCLR, visite www.nclr.org o síganos en Facebook y Twitter.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                         Contact:
July 6, 2015                                                                                   Ricky Garza
                                                                                                      (202) 776-1732; rgarza@nclr.org
                                                                                                      NCLR Press Office (July 10–14)
                                                                                                      (816) 513-5539

DAILY PRESS ADVISORY
For Saturday, July 11, 2015

NCLR Annual Conference Kicks Off with Opening of National Latino Family Expo®, NBC’s Miguel Almaguer, and Welcoming Remarks from Governor Jay Nixon and Mayors Sly James, Jr. and Mark Holland

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The 2015 NCLR (National Council of La Raza) Annual Conference and National Latino Family Expo kicks off Saturday with exciting photo opportunities; remarks from Governor Jay Nixon of Missouri, Mayor Sly James, Jr. of Kansas City, Mo., and Mayor Mark Holland of Kansas City, Kan.; and fantastic entertainment featuring some of the Latino community’s rising stars in music and comedy, including Cristela Alonzo, Nick Guerra, and Frankie Negrón.

Highlights for Saturday include a town hall on higher education moderated by NBC News National Correspondent Miguel Amalguer and a keynote address by Dr. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, President and CEO of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. We encourage all credentialed media to join us for a blend of entertaining and informative events. Press registration is open for Conference, free of charge, and a full list of events and workshops is available online.

***GREAT PHOTO OPPORTUNITY***
National Latino Family Expo Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Kansas City Convention Center Exhibit Hall
10:00 a.m.
Join NCLR President and CEO Janet Murguía as well as Nickelodeon’s Dora the Explorer, one of the nation’s most beloved television characters, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles at a ribbon cutting ceremony to open the 2015 National Latino Family Expo, the largest Latino consumer show in the nation.

Workshop
An Untold Story: Abusive Policing and Lost Latino Lives
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2207
10:45 a.m.–12:15 p.m.
This workshop will address Latinos’ experiences with extreme policing and the steps needed to restore trust between police and the Latino community. Attendees will hear from leaders in the field and get background materials on Hispanics’ interactions with the criminal justice system.

National Affiliate Luncheon
Kansas City Convention Center Grand Ballroom
12:45–2:45 p.m.
Dr. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey will deliver the keynote address at this year’s luncheon, which will also feature welcoming remarks from Governor Jay Nixon, Mayor Sly James, Jr. and Mayor Mark Holland. Rep Emanuel Cleaver II (D–Mo.) will deliver the invocation.

Town Hall
Getting In. Staying In: An Interactive Community Discussion on Education
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2505
3:00–4:30 p.m.
NCLR’s first-ever interactive town hall—moderated by award-winning journalist Miguel Almaguer—will engage Latinos in the multiple challenges students face moving from K–12 to higher education. Come hear from first-time college students and others who personify the Latino community’s achievement of the American Dream through education, including Fernando Rojas, the 2015 Co-Valedictorian of Fullerton Union High School in California, who will share his experience being the son of Mexican immigrants and earning acceptance letters to eight Ivy League schools. Audience participants will take part in a live poll during the session.

Welcome to Kansas City/Bienvenidos a Kansas City
A Night of Comedy
Folly Theater, 300 W. 12th Street
5:30–8:30 p.m.
Join Cristela Alonzo and Nick Guerra, two Latinos who are quickly conquering the world of comedy, for a night that promises raucous laughter and endless fun.

Welcome to Kansas City/Bienvenidos a Kansas City
Live in Concert!
The Kansas City Power & Light District
9:00–11:00 p.m.
Grammy Award–nominated Latin pop singer Frankie Negrón will bring salsa to the “heart of America” for a high-energy performance that is sure to get concertgoers out of their seats. The concert will also feature a performance from hometown band Making Movies, known for their alternative sound with Latin-infused beats.

GREAT PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES!

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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PARA DIVULGACIÓN INMMEDIATA                                                  Contacto:
7 de julio de 2015                                                                               Ricky Garza
                                                                                                        (202) 776-1732; rgarza@nclr.org
                                                                                                        Oficina de Prensa de NCLR (del 10 al 14 de julio)
                                                                                                        (816) 513-5539

COMUNICADO DE PRENSA
Para el domingo 12 de julio de 2015

El Día Domingo Durante la Conferencia Anual de NCLR se Presentarán: Rosie Ríos, Tesorera de los Estados Unidos; el Congresista Emanuel Cleaver II; la Familia Murguía y varias Líderes Latinas

KANSAS CITY, MO.- Rosie Ríos, Tesorera de los Estados Unidos; Emanuel Cleaver II (Congresista Demócrata por Missouri); Linda Alvarado, CEO de Alvarado Construction y copropietaria de los Colorado Rockies; y Mónica Lozano, Presidenta de US Hispanic Media, se unirán a la familia Murguía y a otras líderes latinas para dirigirse al público que asista el día 12 de julio a la Conferencia Anual NCLR 2015.

Los eventos de mayor importancia del día domingo incluyen el Almuerzo de Líderes Latinas en el que se presentarán Linda Alvarado y Líderes Latinas que formaron parte de la Junta Directiva de NCLR. Asimismo habrá una sesión de jóvenes líderes con Janet Murguía, Presidenta y CEO de NCLR y con tres de sus hermanos; y durante ese mismo día en uno de los pabellones habrá una reunión para tratar el tema sobre el estado de la desigualdad económica actual en nuestra nación. A continuación se listan los eventos de mayor relieve y se invita a todos los medios de comunicación acreditados a que participen con nosotros de esta celebración en la que habrá diversas actividades informativas y de entretenimiento. El registro de periodistas es gratis y está abierto a los miembros de la prensa que deseen asistir a la Conferencia; la lista completa de eventos y talleres estará disponible en línea.

Feria Nacional para la Familia Latina®
Kansas City Convention Center Exhibit Hall
10:30 am-6:00 pm
Para disfrutar de la emocionante Feria Nacional para la Familia Latina 2015, la feria más grande para el consumidor latino en este país, el público tendrá la oportunidad de participar de actividades familiares gratuitas, tales como exámenes de salud, demostraciones de cocina y conocer y saludar a celebridades y a mascotas disfrazadas, como Dora La Exploradora y Diego de Nickelodeon y las Tortugas Ninja de Viacom. También quienes asistan a esta feria podrán participar en nuestro propio torneo de fútbol.

Almuerzo con Líderes Latinas
Cinco Décadas de Empoderamiento de las Mujeres Latinas: Celebrando las Líderes de NCLR
Kansas City Convention Center Grand Ballroom
11 am-1:00 pm
NCLR celebra el décimo aniversario de la primera mujer presidenta y CEO de nuestra organización y para ello, Renata Soto, Directora entrante a la Junta de Directores de NCLR, se unirá a Janet Murguía para que junto a las ex directoras de esa junta, Andrea Bazán, Rita DiMartino y Mónica Lozano, presenten a la audiencia sus experiencias y reflexiones sobre lo que las llevó a ocupar sus funciones en NCLR. A la vez, las panelistas asesorarán a la nueva generación de líderes latinas de asociaciones sin fines de lucro. Linda Alvarado será la disertante principal quien hablará sobre el estilo latino de liderazgo.

Paabellón
La Gran División Económica: La Importancia de la Desigualdad
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2505
1: 30 pm -3:00 pm
Mónica Lozano será la anfitriona de una mesa redonda sobre la recuperación continua de la nación desde la Gran Recesión y el crecimiento de la desigualdad de ingresos; hecho por el cual el progreso económico para los latinos sea cada vez más difícil. Rosie Ríos será la disertante principal del panel, en el que también participarán el Congresista Emanuel Cleaver II y María Pesqueira, Presidente de Mujeres Latinas en Acción.

Sesión Especial de la Presidenta
Perfiles en Liderazgo y Servicios Comunitarios: Una Reunión Familiar
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2103C
1: 30-3:00 pm
Janet Murguía hablará a más de 400 jóvenes líderes en la Cumbre de Líderes de NCLR, junto a tres invitados especiales: el Honorable Carlos Murguía de la Corte Federal de Distrito para el Distrito de Kansas; Ramón Murguía, Abogado y Fiduciario de la Fundación W K. Kellogg; y la Honorable Mary H. Murguía de la Corte de Apelaciones del Noveno Circuito. Los hermanos Murguía relatarán sus experiencias como líderes y los servicios que prestaron a la comunidad --como también los valores que heredaron de sus padres -- y sus logros desde sus humildes comienzos en su ciudad natal de Kansas City, Kan.

Taller
Lo que Debe Saber sobre Cambios de la Acción Ejecutiva sobre Inmigración
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2207
3: 30-5:00 pm
Expertos en el tema de la inmigración ofrecerán una actualización sobre el estado del bloqueo a la aplicación de la acción ejecutiva y lo que los defensores y proveedores de servicios pueden hacer ahora para proteger a las personas y ayudar a mantener unidas a las familias hispanas.

Taller
En sus marcas? Listos? Retirense! Preparando a los Latinos para el Retiro
Centro de Convenciones de Kansas City, Salon 2206
3:30pm-5:00pm
Expertos del Departamento de Tesoro de los Estados Unidos, Prudential, El Brighton Park Neighborhood Council, y el NCLR compartirán los resultados de nuevas investigaciones sobre la experiencia financiera de los hispanos y como los latinos se pueden mejor preparar para el retiro.

Recepción para los Aliados y miembros de LGBTQ: Una Velada Nocturna con NCLR
Room 2104B
5: 00 pm-7:00 pm
Venga a celebrar con NCLR y otros defensores la reciente decisión del Tribunal Supremo sobre el matrimonio entre personas del mismo sexo; una victoria decisiva para los derechos civiles en los Estados Unidos.

El Consejo Nacional de La Raza (NCLR, por sus siglas en inglés) –la organización nacional más grande de apoyo y defensa de los derechos civiles de los hispanos en los Estados Unidos– trabaja para mejorar las oportunidades de los estadounidenses hispanos. Para más información sobre NCLR, visite wwhttp://www.nclr.org o síganos en Facebook y Twitter.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                         Contact:
July 7, 2015                                                                                   Ricky Garza
                                                                                                     (202) 776-1732; rgarza@nclr.org
                                                                                                     NCLR Press Office (July 10–14)
                                                                                                     (816) 513-5539

DAILY PRESS ADVISORY
For Sunday, July 12, 2015

U.S. Treasurer Rosie Rios, Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II, Murguía Family and Latina Leaders to Address NCLR Annual Conference on Sunday

KANSAS CITY, Mo.— Rosie Rios, Treasurer of the United States; Representative Emanuel Cleaver II (D–Mo.); Linda Alvarado, CEO of Alvarado Construction and Colorado Rockies Co-owner; and Monica Lozano, Chair of U.S. Hispanic Media, will join the Murguía family and other Latina leaders in addressing participants of the 2015 NCLR (National Council of La Raza) Annual Conference on Sunday, July 12.

Highlights for Sunday include the dynamic Latinas Brunch featuring Linda Alvarado and Latina Chairs of the NCLR Board of Directors, a youth leadership session with NCLR President and CEO Janet Murguía and three of her siblings, and a town hall on the state of economic inequality in our nation today. Key events are listed below and we encourage all credentialed media to join us for a diverse mix of entertaining and informative activities. Press registration is open for Conference, free of charge, and a full list of events and workshops is available online.

National Latino Family Expo®
Kansas City Convention Center Exhibit Hall
10:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Come enjoy the excitement of the 2015 National Latino Family Expo, the largest Latino consumer show in the nation, with free family-friendly activities such as health screenings, cooking demonstrations and meet-and-greets with celebrities and costumed mascots, including Nickelodeon’s Dora the Explorer and Diego and Viacom’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Participants can also play in our very own soccer tournament.

Latinas Brunch
Five Decades of Latina Empowerment: Celebrating NCLR Women Leaders
Kansas City Convention Center Grand Ballroom
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
As NCLR commemorates the tenth anniversary of our first female President and CEO, incoming NCLR Board Chair Renata Soto will join Janet Murguía for a discussion with former Board Chairs Andrea Bazán, Rita DiMartino and Monica Lozano. Panelists will reflect on what led them to NCLR, memories from their tenures as Board Chairs, and advice they have for the new generation of Latina nonprofit leaders. Keynote speaker Linda Alvarado will also speak to leadership, Latina style.

Town Hall
The Great Economic Divide: Why Inequality Matters
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2505
1:30–3:00 p.m.
Monica Lozano will host a panel discussion on the nation’s continued recovery from the Great Recession and the growth of income inequality that has made economic advancement increasingly difficult for Latinos. Rosie Rios will serve as the featured speaker on a panel that also includes Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II and Maria Pesqueira, President of Mujeres Latinas en Acción.

President’s Special Session
Profiles in Leadership and Service: A Family Affair
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2103C
1:30–3:00 p.m.
Janet Murguía will talk with the more than 400 youth leaders at the NCLR Líderes Summit, along with three special guests: The Honorable Carlos Murguía, U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas; Ramon Murguía, Attorney and W.K. Kellogg Foundation Trustee; and The Honorable Mary H. Murguía, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. The siblings will share how leadership and community service—as well as the values of their hardworking parents—have been central to their work and accomplishments in their journey from humble beginnings in their hometown of Kansas City, Kan.

Workshop
What You Need to Know about Administrative Relief
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2207
3:30–5:00 p.m.
Immigration experts will provide an update on the status of the lawsuit blocking the implementation of administrative relief and address what advocates and service providers can do now to protect individuals and help keep families together.

Workshop
Ready? Set? Retire! Preparing Latinos for Retirement
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2206
3:30–5:00 p.m.
Experts from the U.S. Department of Treasury, Prudential, the Brighton Park Neighborhood Council and NCLR will share new findings about the financial experience of Hispanics and ways to improve Latino retirement readiness.

LGBTQ and Allies Reception: A Night OUT with NCLR
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2104B
5:00–7:00 p.m.
Come celebrate with NCLR and other advocates the recent Supreme Court decision on same-sex marriage that returned a decisive victory for civil rights in the United States.

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Community Service Project to Kick off NCLR Annual Conference
In Kansas City
NCLR, El Centro, Bank of America and Heartland Habitat for Humanity to restore classrooms and playground at local school

KANSAS CITY, Ks.—On Friday, July 10, 2015, volunteers from El Centro, NCLR (National Council of La Raza), Bank of America and Heartland Habitat for Humanity will come together at the Academy for Children in Kansas City, Ks., a dual-language preschool program, for a day of service. The project, supported by Bank of America and Heartland Habitat for Humanity, is taking place on the eve of the 2015 NCLR Annual Conference, which kicks off Saturday, July 11, at the Kansas City Convention Center in Kansas City, Mo., and features the National Latino Family Expo®, the largest Latino-consumer focused event in the nation.

“We are extremely proud to have this collaborative effort as part of our kickoff to the NCLR Annual Conference in Kansas City. We are grateful to Bank of America for supporting this effort and bringing volunteers to lend a hand in making Academy for Children a safer and more beautiful place for the children who attend the preschool, as well as the community members who utilize the varied services offered by our Affiliate El Centro at this location,” said Enrique Chaurand, Deputy Vice President, Integrated Marketing and Events, NCLR. “Habitat for Humanity has always been a steadfast partner in expanding homeownership opportunities for Latinos, and we are happy to once again partner with them in beautifying this deserving community.”

During the day of service, volunteers will paint and restore two classrooms at the school, construct an outdoor classroom and install a fence that will provide added security for the Academy’s students. More than 100 volunteers are expected to work on the three projects, which are expected to be completed by the day’s end.

“We’re delighted to partner with NCLR and Heartland Habitat for Humanity for a day of service at El Centro’s Academy for Children,” said Jack Ovel, Kansas City Market President, Bank of America. “It’s a great way for the community to unite for the greater good, supporting youth and economic success in Kansas City.”

“El Centro appreciates those who have decided to give up a portion of their day to volunteer at our Academy for Children, providing some much-needed refurbishments both inside and out. We are humbly proud of our Academy and the dual-language pre-K education offered to the community to get children ready and eager for kindergarten,” said Irene Caudillo, President and CEO of El Centro. “With volunteers from NCLR, Bank of America and Heartland Habitat for Humanity, we know we can enhance our educational setting for our children. By serving in these projects, all volunteers become part of the national showcase of NCLR, along with showing the nation how Kansas City works together and cares for the community in which we live.”

Members of the media are welcome to attend any portion of the event. Ricky Garza
 (202) 776-1732; rgarza@nclr.org GREAT PHOTO OPPORTUNITY!

The National Latino Family Expo will run throughout the weekend and is free and open to the public. The NCLR Annual Conference will offer town halls and workshop tracks that feature prominent political, civic and community leaders covering diverse issues including education, health care, immigration and workforce development, among many others.

MEDIA ADVISORY

8:30–8:45 a.m.
Opening/Welcome, Irene Caudillo (President/CEO, El Centro)
Tom Lally (President and CEO, Heartland Habitat for Humanity)
NCLR representative (TBD)

8:45 a.m.–Noon
Volunteers conducting community service projects

Noon–1:00 p.m. Lunch break (School Gymnasium)
Presentation of grant check to Heartland Habitat for Humanity from Bank of America

1:00–1:45 p.m.
Final push to complete projects

1:45–2:00 p.m.
Closing remarks and thank you to volunteers
(School Gymnasium)
Irene Caudillo (President/CEO, El Centro)
Tom Lally (President and CEO, Heartland Habitat for Humanity)
Angela Garcia Lathrop (Community Affairs Executive, Bank of America)

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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PARA DIVULGACIÓN INMEDIATA                                             Contacto:
8 de julio de 2015                                                                       Ricky Garza
                                                                                                  (202) 776-1732; rgarza@nclr.org
                                                                                                  Sala de prensa del NCLR (10 a 14 de julio)
                                                                                                  (816) 513-5539

AVISO DIARIO DE PRENSA
Para Martes 14 de julio de 2015

La secretaria de Comercio Penny Pritzker, la delegada de FCC Mignon Clyburn y Jess George de Google hablan el martes en la Conferencia Anual del NCLR

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—El martes 14 de julio, último día de la Conferencia Anual 2015 del NCLR (Consejo Nacional de La Raza), los asistentes tendrán la oportunidad de escuchar hablar a Janet Murguía, presidenta y directora general del NCLR, y a otros ponentes sobre los asuntos importantes para la comunidad latina, que incluyen la economía del país, la tecnología y la policía comunitaria. Entre los ponentes estarán la secretaria de Comercio de EE.UU. Penny Pritzker; Mignon Clyburn, delegada de la Comisión Federal de Comunicaciones (FCC); Jess George, gerente de impacto comunitario de Google; y el oficial Octavio Villalobos del Departamento de Policía Metropolitana de Kansas City, que hablará a los jóvenes líderes latinos.

La conferencia que durará cuatro días culminará con la Gala de los Premios del NCLR el jueves por la noche. A continuación se encuentra la lista de los eventos más destacados que tendrán lugar el martes. Por otro lado, pedimos a los miembros de la prensa con credenciales que se unan a nosotros en esta amalgama de entretenimiento y eventos informativos. El registro de la prensa está abierto para la Conferencia y no tiene costo. Asimismo, la lista completa de los eventos y talleres se encuentra disponible en línea.

Taller
Policía comunitaria en Kansas City: un enfoque compasivo
Sala 2102A del Centro de Convenciones de Kansas City
10:30 AM – mediodía
Más de 400 jóvenes de la Cumbre Líderes del NCLR escucharán hablar a Octavio Villalobos
sobre cómo Westside Community Action Network ha reducido el crimen en Kansas City en un 67% y cómo utiliza la compasión en lugar de la fuerza para crear verdaderos lazos entre la comunidad y los muchos jornaleros del área.

Taller
Una Nueva Bienvenida Americana: Reduciendo las Barreras a la Integración de los Inmigrantes
Sala 2206 del Centro de Convenciones de Kansas City
10:30 AM – mediodía
Este taller explorará el progreso que se ha hecho desde que el presidente Obama anunció las acciones ejecutivas en torno a la inmigración el pasado noviembre y las barreras que aún existen a la naturalización. Oficiales de la Administración, expertos en el campo de inmigración, y un oficial local de asuntos migratorios discutirán como podemos hacer la ciudadanía más accesible para millones de personas calificadas y como mejor integrar a los inmigrantes a nuestras comunidades.

Almuerzo
Grand Ballroom del Centro de Convenciones de la Ciudad de Kansas
12:30 PM – 2:30 PM.
Janet Murguía dará su mensaje como presidenta y oradora principal del almuerzo, que también contará con la presencia de Penny Pritzker. Kris Ketz, reportero de KMBC 9 News, será el maestro de ceremonias.

Reunión municipal
Abriendo el portal de la tecnología a las familias
Sala 2505 del Centro de Convenciones de Kansas City
3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
El poder de la tecnología para mejorar la calidad de vida y crear oportunidades en varios frentes –salud, educación y empleo– para los latinos será el enfoque de esta reunión donde participarán Mignon Clyburn, Jess George y Karla Monterroso de CODE2040. Roy Burstin, director general de mitú Network, será el moderador.

Gala de Premios: homenajeando a los nuestros
Grand Ballroom del Centro de Convenciones de la Ciudad de Kansas
7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
¡Vengan a disfrutar el cierre de la Conferencia Anual 2015 del NCLR! En este evento, el NCLR otorgará a seis individuos y organizaciones los premios por los logros ejemplares y el servicio a la comunidad latina, que incluyen a El Concilio, Inc.; la Dra. Juliet V. García, directora ejecutiva del Instituto de las Américas de la Universidad de Texas; Mandalit del Barco, periodista de NPR West; Luis Garden Acosta, fundador y presidente de El Puente; Cookie Rojas, exjugador y entrenador de las Grandes Ligas de Béisbol; y Tony Salazar, presidente de McCormack Baron Salazar.

El NCLR (Consejo Nacional de La Raza) es la organización nacional más grande de apoyo y defensa de los derechos civiles de los hispanos en los Estados Unidos y trabaja para mejorar sus oportunidades. Para más información sobre el NCLR, por favor visite www.nclr.org o síganos en Facebook y Twitter.

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DAILY PRESS ADVISORY
For Tuesday, July 14, 2015

Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker, FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn and Google’s Jess George to Address NCLR Annual Conference on Tuesday
 

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—On Tuesday, July 14, the last day of the 2015 NCLR (National Council of La Raza) Annual Conference, attendees will hear NCLR President and CEO Janet Murguía and other speakers address key issues in the Latino community today, including our nation’s economy, technology and community policing, among others. Speakers will include U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker; Mignon Clyburn, Commissioner, Federal Communications Commission (FCC); Jess George, Community Impact Manager, Google; and Officer Octavio Villalobos of the Kansas City Metropolitan Police Department, who will speak to Latino youth leaders.

The four-day conference will conclude with the NCLR Awards Gala on Tuesday evening. Highlights are listed below and we encourage all credentialed media to join us for a blend of entertaining and informative events. Press registration is open for Conference, free of charge, and a full list of events and workshops is available online.

Workshop
Community Policing in Kansas City: A Compassionate Approach
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2102A
10:30 a.m.–Noon
More than 400 youth from the NCLR Líderes Summit will hear from Octavio Villalobos about how the Westside Community Action Network has reduced crime in Kansas City by 67 percent and uses compassion rather than force to build real bonds with the community and the many day laborers in the area.

Workshop
A New American Homecoming: Reducing Barriers to Immigrant Integration
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2206
10:30 a.m.–Noon
This workshop will explore the progress made since President Obama announced his executive actions on immigration last November and address remaining barriers to naturalization. Administration officials, experts in the field, and a local immigrant affairs officer will discuss how we can make citizenship more accessible for millions and help new citizens integrate into our communities.

Tuesday Luncheon
Kansas City Convention Center Grand Ballroom
12:30–2:30 p.m.
Janet Murguía will deliver her president’s message as the keynote speaker at this luncheon, which will also feature Penny Pritzker. Kris Ketz, Anchor, KMBC 9 News, will serve as emcee.

Town Hall
Opening the Portal of Technology to Latino Families
Kansas City Convention Center, Room 2505
3:00–4:30 p.m.
The power of technology to improve the quality of life and create opportunities for Latinos on various fronts—such as health, education and jobs—will be the focus of this town hall with Mignon Clyburn, Jess George, and CODE2040’s Karla Monterroso. Roy Burstin, CEO of mitú Network, will moderate the discussion.

Awards Gala: Honoring Our Own
Kansas City Convention Center Grand Ballroom
7:00–9:30 p.m.
Come enjoy the exciting conclusion of the 2015 NCLR Annual Conference! NCLR will present awards for exemplary accomplishments and service to the Latino community to six individuals and organizations, including El Concilio, Inc.; Dr. Juliet V. Garcia, Executive Director, University of Texas Institute of the Americas; Mandalit del Barco, Journalist, NPR West; Luis Garden Acosta, Founder and President, El Puente; Cookie Rojas, former Major League Baseball player and coach; and Tony Salazar, Principal, McCormack Baron Salazar.

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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NCLR Applauds New HUD Rule to Promote Fair Housing and Expand Opportunities for Latinos

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Earlier today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) introduced a long-awaited rule that would address housing discrimination and segregation in communities across the country. As NCLR (National Council of La Raza) has documented in numerous reports, Latinos are still discriminated against at almost every level of the housing industry.

This rule strengthens the mandate under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) to affirmatively further fair housing and requires communities that use federal taxpayer funds to collect data on how their neighborhoods fare. To help communities achieve this goal, HUD provided a robust data tool that helps jurisdictions capture poverty rates and racial makeup, among other factors, to more accurately assess patterns of racial bias in housing. Communities will also be required to publically report these data and set goals, which will be monitored, to combat segregation and discrimination.

NCLR applauds HUD and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julián Castro for this much-needed rule, which will help communities identify barriers to fair housing and hold them accountable for finding solutions.

“For Latino families, who are among the most vulnerable to fair housing violations, strong regulations that combat systemic discrimination are essential to expanding opportunities and promoting healthier, safer and more diverse communities. Persistent segregation in communities often prevents low-income people and people of color from accessing quality schools, transportation and jobs,” said Janet Murguía, President and CEO of NCLR. “This strong rule from HUD will help address the growing racial and ethnic inequalities in this country by ensuring that all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, family status or disability, may choose where they want to live.”

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org or follow along on Facebook and Twitter.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                      Contact:
July 9, 2015                                                               Julian Teixeira
                                                                                  (202) 776-1812
                                                                                  jteixeira@nclr.org

NCLR also welcomes new executive officers and Board members

WASHINGTON, D.C.—NCLR (National Council of La Raza) is pleased to announce that Renata Soto, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Nashville-based nonprofit Conexión Américas, has been elected Chair of the NCLR Board of Directors. She has served as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors since 2012 and is the first Central American and Tennessean to fill the position.

“Through her exemplary work at Conexión Américas, Renata has built a reputation as a fierce advocate for Latinos and a valuable asset for the Nashville community with the leadership skills and vision to achieve everything that she sets out to accomplish,” stated Janet Murguía, NCLR President and CEO. “Conexión Américas has become a model for nonprofits across the country thanks in part to Renata’s determination to help Latinos achieve the American Dream. We are excited to welcome Renata as the new Chair of the Board of Directors at NCLR, a position in which she will certainly leave her stamp on the organization.”

Under the leadership of Soto, who co-founded the organization in 2002, Conexión Américas has flourished as a premiere nonprofit in the Nashville area, using a comprehensive approach to promote the social, economic and civic integration of Latino families. The organization currently assists nearly 6,000 families annually through its nationally recognized programs that help Latino families and individuals learn English, pay taxes, start a business, become homeowners, and help their children succeed in school and go to college. Soto was also instrumental in the creation of Casa Azafrán, which houses Conexión Américas and a number of other nonprofits, serving as a community gathering place and social services hub for Nashville residents. Last year, President Obama held a town hall on immigration at Casa Azafrán.

“I’m delighted to become the new Chair of the NCLR Board of Directors,” Soto said. “I have worked closely with NCLR for many years and look forward to continuing to partner with Janet, the Board, staff and affiliated community-based organizations to create greater opportunities for Hispanic Americans. This is an exciting time as we head toward the 2016 elections with growing recognition of the importance of Latinos to the future of our great nation.”

Soto has also helped to ensure that Nashville remains a vibrant and inclusive community as a founding member of the Nashville for All of Us coalition, which helped defeat an “English-only” referendum in 2009. She has been repeatedly honored for her leadership and commitment to the Nashville community, earning her induction into the YWCA Academy for Women of Achievement in 2012 and receiving recognition as the 2013 “Nashvillian of the Year” from the Nashville Scene. She was recently selected for the 2015 Pahara-Aspen Education Fellowship.

In addition to Soto, the members of the NCLR Board of Directors’ Executive Committee are:
• Maria S. Salinas, Vice Chair (Los Angeles)
• Catherine Pino, Secretary (Falls Church, Va.)
• Beatriz Olvera-Stotzer, Treasurer (Los Angeles)
• Jorge A. Plasencia, Immediate Past Chair (Miami)
• Janet Murguía, President and CEO (Washington, D.C.)

The Members at Large are:
• Luis Avila (Phoenix)
• Sergio Gonzalez (Miami)
• Dr. Edwin Meléndez (New York)
• J. Walter Tejada (Arlington, Va.)

The NCLR Board also welcomed several new members:
• Ruby Azurdia-Lee, President, CLUES (Minneapolis)
• John Esquivel, retired Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer and Associate General Counsel, Shell Oil Company (Houston)
• Michael G. Johnson, Chief Human Resource Officer and Vice President of Human Resources–Global Employee Services, UPS (Atlanta)
• Celena Roldán-Moreno, Executive Director, Erie Neighborhood House (Chicago)
• Rossana Rosado, Distinguished Lecturer, John Jay College (New York)

NCLR’s Board is a 24-member body composed of elected officials and representatives of community-based organizations, the corporate sector and academia. Board members reflect the diversity of Hispanic nationality groups and the geographic distribution of the U.S. Hispanic population. By mandate, the Board must include equal representation of men and women.

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Latinos. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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PARA DIVULGACIÓN INMEDIATA                                                      Contacto:
8 de julio de 2015                                                                                Ricky Garza
                                                                                                            (202) 776-1732; rgarza@nclr.org
                                                                                                            Sala de prensa del NCLR (Julio 10–14)
                                                                                                            (816) 513-5539

NCLR, El Centro, Bank of America y Habitat for Humanity restauran las aulas y el patio de recreo de una escuela local

KANSAS CITY, Ks.—El viernes 10 de julio de 2015, voluntarios de El Centro, NCLR (Consejo Nacional de La Raza), Bank of America y Habitat for Humanity se darán cita para un día de servicio comunitario en la Academy for Children en Kansas City, Ks., una escuela preescolar de dos idiomas. El proyecto, respaldado por Bank of America y Habitat for Humanity, se llevará a cabo en la víspera de la Conferencia Anual del NCLR. Dicha conferencia inicia el sábado 11 de julio en el Centro de Convenciones de Kansas City, Mo., siendo su atractivo principal la Feria Nacional de la Familia Latina, el evento enfocado al consumidor latino más grande del país.

“Estamos sumamente orgullosos de que este esfuerzo de colaboración sea parte de la inauguración de nuestra Conferencia Anual del NCLR en Kansas City. Agradecemos a Bank of America su apoyo y la participación de sus voluntarios para echar una mano y hacer que Academy sea un lugar más seguro y bello para los niños de preescolar y para la comunidad que utiliza los servicios que ofrece nuestro afiliado El Centro, en ese lugar”, dijo Enrique Chaurand, vicepresidente adjunto de mercadotecnia y eventos integrados del NCLR. “Habitat for Humanity siempre ha sido un socio firme en ampliar las oportunidades de propiedad de la vivienda para los latinos y estamos muy contentos de volver a colaborar con ellos en el embellecimiento de esta comunidad que tanto lo merece”.
Durante este día de servicio comunitario, los voluntarios pintarán y restaurarán dos aulas de la escuela, construirán una aula exterior e instalarán una valla que proporcionará seguridad adicional para los estudiantes de Academy for Children. Se estima que más de 100 voluntarios trabajarán en el proyecto que se espera completar al final del día.

“Estamos encantados de colaborar con NCLR y Habitat for Humanity el día de servicio comunitario en la Academy for Children de El Centro”, dijo Jack Ovel, presidente del mercado de Kansas City de Bank of America. “Es una gran manera de unir a la comunidad en aras del bien común, apoyar a la juventud y el éxito de Kansas City”.

“El Centro agradece a todos aquellos que han decidido voluntariamente dar parte de su tiempo para ayudar con las reformas tan necesarias del interior y exterior de nuestra Academy for Children. Humildemente, nos sentimos orgullosos de nuestra escuela y de la educación preescolar en dos idiomas que ofrece a la comunidad para preparar a los pequeños para el Jardín de Niños”, dijo Irene Caudillo, presidenta y directora general de El Centro. “Con los voluntarios del NCLR, Bank of America y Habitat for Humanity, sabemos que podemos mejorar el entorno escolar de nuestros niños. Con su participación en este proyecto, todos los voluntarios forman parte del escaparate nacional del NCLR y muestran a todo el país cómo Kansas City trabaja unida y se preocupa por la comunidad en la que vivimos”.

Son bienvenidos los miembros de la prensa que deseen asistir al evento. Se pueden poner en contacto con Ricky Garza llamando al (202) 776-1732 o enviando un correo a rgarza@nclr.org.

¡GRAN OPORTUNIDAD PARA TOMAR FOTOS!

La Feria Nacional de la Familia Latina se llevará a cabo durante el fin de semana, está abierta al público y la entrada es gratuita. La Conferencia Anual del NCLR ofrecerá reuniones municipales y talleres donde estarán presentes importantes líderes políticos, civiles y comunitarios que cubrirán diversos temas, que incluyen la educación, el cuidado de salud, la inmigración y el desarrollo de la fuerza laboral, entre otros.

AVISO DE PRENSA

QUÉ:              Día de servicio comunitario: restauración de aulas y patio de recreo

DÓNDE:         El Centro Academy for Children
                       1330 S. 30th Street
                       Kansas City, KS 66106

CUÁNDO:      Viernes 10 de julio, 2015
                       8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
                       8:30 AM – 8:45 AM

Apertura y bienvenida: Irene Caudillo (Presidenta y directora general de El Centro)
Tom Lally (Presidente y director general de Heartland Habitat for Humanity)
Representante de NCLR (Por determinarse)

8:45 AM – mediodía
Voluntarios realizando proyectos de servicio comunitario

Mediodía – 1:00 PM Almuerzo (Gimnasio de la escuela)
Entrega del cheque de subvención de Bank of America a Habitat for Humanity

1:00 PM – 1:45 PM
Último empuje para terminar el proyecto

1:45 PM – 2:00 PM
Palabras de cierre y agradecimiento a los voluntarios
(Gimnasio de la escuela)
Irene Caudillo (Presidenta y directora general de El Centro)
Tom Lally (Presidente y director general de Heartland Habitat for Humanity)
Ángela García Lathrop (Ejecutiva de asuntos comunitarios de Bank of America)

El NCLR (Consejo Nacional de La Raza) es la organización nacional más grande de apoyo y defensa de los derechos civiles de los hispanos en los Estados Unidos y trabaja para mejorar sus oportunidades. Para más información sobre el NCLR, por favor visite www.nclr.org o síganos en Facebook y Twitter.

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Democratic Presidential Candidate Bernie Sanders to Address
 2015 NCLR Annual Conference

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—On Monday, July 13, Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Bernie Sanders (D–VT) will address Latino advocates and leaders from throughout the nation at the 2015 NCLR (National Council of La Raza) Annual Conference. He will speak at a special session in Room 2505 of the Kansas City Convention Center.

Sanders is expected to address issues vital to Latinos and all Americans: jobs and the economy, civil rights, immigration, education and more. A full list of events and workshops at the 2015 NCLR Annual Conference, to be held July 11–14 in Kansas City, is available online. Press registration is open to reporters with media credentials, free of charge; attendance is limited to reporters who obtain an NCLR press pass.

MEDIA ADVISORY

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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NCLR Announces Immigo 2.0
Additional features added to the successful app designed to
support immigrant integration

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Today, NCLR (National Council of La Raza) unveiled Immigo 2.0, an updated version of its innovative mobile app designed to inform service providers and organizations working in the immigrant integration field with the most up-to-date information about immigration law and policy.

The updated version of the Immigo app has several new features and enhancements, such as the ability to email, tweet and share content from the app with others; the option to print information from the app wirelessly; and advanced search options for the Find Legal Help feature, which allows users to search for local lawyers with specialties such as naturalization and narrow results by languages spoken.

“Immigo 2.0 includes enhancements that we are excited to bring to the app’s users,” said Janet Murguía, President and CEO of NCLR. “Immigo will continue to be an incredible resource and valuable tool to all those working with immigrant communities. I want to thank Verizon for its long-standing partnership and support of Immigo, a one-of-a kind application providing technology solutions that are helping NCLR’s Affiliates.”

“From education to immigration reform, we proudly support the outstanding work NCLR does every day on behalf of Latino children and families nationwide. At Verizon innovation with purpose is at the heart of what we do and why we invested in the creation of the Immigo app. We are truly excited about the significant impact that the Immigo app will have for strengthening the Latino community today and for years to come,” said Emilio Gonzalez, Executive Director for Verizon Strategic Alliances.

By building on the app’s already easy-to-use features, Immigo will continue to serve as a comprehensive resource for anyone who works with immigrant communities. The app, which is currently available for free on Apple and Android smartphones and tablets, provides users with information about state and federal regulations and resources associated with immigration, as well as changes and updates to immigration law and policy. Additional features include a daily immigration news feed and geolocation technology that allows users to find nearby, trusted providers of immigration legal services.

“We’re excited to partner with NCLR to launch the next-generation Immigo app,” said Matthew Burnett, Director of the Immigration Advocates Network (IAN). “New features and content will allow advocates to connect immigrants to quality legal information and trusted referrals at a time when fraud and misinformation in immigrant communities is rampant.”

The application was made possible by NCLR with support from Verizon; it was developed in partnership with IAN and Pro Bono Net.

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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NCLR Presents San Francisco and Kansas City Affiliates with Family Strengthening Award at the 2015 NCLR Annual Conference

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—At the National Affiliate Luncheon held today at the 2015 NCLR Annual Conference in Kansas City, Mo., NCLR (National Council of La Raza) recognized two community-based organizations that belong to the NCLR Affiliate Network for their outstanding efforts to empower Latino families and broaden opportunities available to them. This year’s awardees are Mission Asset Fund in San Francisco and Guadalupe Centers, Inc. in Kansas City, Mo.

“We are honoring Mission Asset Fund and Guadalupe Centers at the 2015 NCLR Annual Conference for work that has transformed the lives of young Latinos and their families. Their dedication and success strengthen our entire community,” said Janet Murguía, President and CEO, NCLR. “We applaud these exemplary organizations and their innovative approach to helping the Hispanic communities in Kansas City and San Francisco gain access to safe credit and affordable health care.”

Presented annually, the NCLR Family Strengthening Awards honor two NCLR-affiliated community-based organizations for their commitment to bolstering the success and strength of the Hispanic community through a combination of programs and services. Each recipient receives a $5,000 cash award to further their work in the community and their partnership with NCLR.

Founded in 2007, Mission Asset Fund works to create a fair financial marketplace for hardworking and low-income families who lack the access and resources to reach their financial goals. The organization was recognized for its innovative Lending Circles program, a zero-interest credit-building social loans program designed to help weave low-income families into the financial mainstream. The program enables participants to build credit scores and credit histories and achieve financial stability.

“We are thrilled to be chosen as this year’s recipient of the NCLR Family Strengthening Award,” said Jose Quinonez, CEO of Mission Asset Fund. “This recognition from NCLR helps us pave the way toward a fair financial marketplace for hardworking families in the U.S. Together, we expand access to thousands of credit invisibles across the country, ensuring they aren’t stuck with predatory loans from payday lenders and instead are building on the strengths of their community to take the next financial steps in their lives.”

Established nearly a century ago in 1919, Guadalupe Centers, Inc. in Kansas City, Mo., is the oldest operating community-based organization for Latinos in the United States. Enhancing the quality of life for Hispanics through a comprehensive set of educational, social, recreational and cultural services, Guadalupe Centers, Inc. is improving the lives of Latino families. The group was recognized for its launch of the Guadalupe Educational Systems, a charter school program that provides a rigorous and enriching learning experience for Latino K–12 students. Through this program, Guadalupe Centers, Inc. is helping remedy the educational gaps affecting Kansas City Latinos and empowering young students to reach their full potential.

"Throughout 96 years of service, Guadalupe Centers, Inc. has provided educational programs for the Latino community. We appreciate the collaboration with NCLR in these endeavors and are honored to receive this recognition,” said Cris Medina, CEO, Guadalupe Centers, Inc.

NCLR—the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States—works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans. For more information on NCLR, please visit www.nclr.org or follow along on Facebook and Twitter.

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El Consejo Nacional de La Raza Otorga Premios por el Fortalecimiento de la Familia a Afiliados de San Francisco y Kansas City Durante la Conferencia Anual NCLR 2015

KANSAS CITY, Mo.-Durante el Almuerzo Nacional de Afiliados celebrado hoy durante la Conferencia Anual de NCLR en Kansas City, Mo., el Consejo Nacional de La Raza (NCLR, por sus siglas en inglés) reconoció a dos organizaciones de la comunidad que pertenecen a la Red de Afiliados de NCLR por sus destacados esfuerzos para empoderar a las familias latinas y ampliar sus oportunidades. Las organizaciones premiadas de este año son: Mission Asset Fund en San Francisco y Guadalupe Centers, Inc. en Kansas City, Mo.

"En la Conferencia Anual NCLR 2015 rendimos homenajes a Mission Asset Fund y a Guadalupe Centers porque con su trabajo han transformado la vida de jóvenes latinos y sus familias. Su dedicación y éxito fortalecen toda nuestra comunidad ", dijo Janet Murguía, presidenta y CEO de NCLR. "Aplaudimos a estas ejemplares organizaciones ya que con su innovador enfoque ayudan a las comunidades hispanas de Kansas City y San Francisco para tener acceso al crédito seguro y al cuidado de salud asequible".

Cada año se otorgan Premios por el Fortalecimiento de la Familia a dos organizaciones comunitarias, afiliadas a NCLR, por su exitoso compromiso con la comunidad hispana al ofrecer una combinación de programas y servicios. Cada una de estas organizaciones recibe un premio en efectivo de $5,000 para continuar su trabajo en la comunidad y su asociación con NCLR.

Fundado en 2007, Mission Asset Fund trabaja para crear un mercado financiero justo para las familias trabajadoras y de bajos ingresos que carecen de acceso y recursos para alcanzar sus metas financieras. La organización fue reconocida por su innovador programa de Lending Circles, un programa de préstamos establecido a cero interés que se diseñó para ayudar a que las familias de bajos ingresos pudiesen integrarse al mundo de las finanzas prevalecientes. El programa permite que los participantes puedan tener un buen puntaje para su historial crediticio y de esa manera lograr su estabilidad financiera.

"Nos sentimos muy felices de que este año nos hayan elegido para recibir el Premio al Fortalecimiento de la Familia NCLR", dijo José Quiñonez, Director General de Mission Asset Fund. "Este reconocimiento de NCLR nos ayuda a allanar el camino hacia un mercado financiero justo para las familias trabajadoras de los EE.UU. Con la colaboración de NCLR hemos ampliado el acceso a miles de créditos invisibles en todo el país, asegurando que quienes solicitan los créditos no queden atrapados por prestamistas que otorgan préstamos a intereses abusivos y, en su lugar, establezcan fuertes bases en su comunidad para luego seguir avanzando financieramente en sus vidas".

Fundada hace casi un siglo, en 1919, Guadalupe Centers, Inc. en Kansas City, Missouri, es la organización de base comunitaria más antigua que trabaja para ayudar a los latinos en los Estados Unidos. Guadalupe Centers Inc. mejora la calidad de vida de las familias hispanas a través de un amplio conjunto de servicios educativos, sociales, recreativos y culturales. El grupo fue reconocido por haber lanzado los Sistemas Educativos de Guadalupe, un programa de escuela autónoma que proporciona una experiencia de aprendizaje riguroso y enriquecedor para estudiantes latinos desde Kindergarten hasta el Grado12. A través de este programa, Guadalupe Centers, Inc. ayuda a remediar las carencias educativas que afectan a los latinos de Kansas City y al mismo ha ayudado a potenciar la capacidad de los jóvenes estudiantes.

"A lo largo de sus 96 años de servicio, Guadalupe Centers, Inc. ha ofrecido programas educativos para la comunidad latina. Agradecemos la colaboración que hemos recibido de NCLR y nos sentimos muy honrados que hayan reconocido nuestros esfuerzos", dijo Cris Medina, Director General de Guadalupe Centers, Inc.

El Consejo Nacional de La Raza (NCLR, por sus siglas en inglés) –la organización nacional más grande de apoyo y defensa de los derechos civiles de los hispanos en los Estados Unidos– trabaja para mejorar las oportunidades de los estadounidenses hispanos. Para más información sobre NCLR, visite www.nclr.org o síganos en Facebook y Twitter.

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