On October 6, The California Latino Legislative Caucus (CLLC) marked its 50th Anniversary at the historic Orpheum Theater in Downtown Los Angeles.
“Marking 50 years of the California Latino Legislative Caucus is historic–and not just a remembrance of the past, but a tribute to the unyielding spirit of Latino empowerment that has persisted in California for half a century,” said Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes, Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus.“For five decades, the Latino Caucus has been more than an institution; it has been a guiding light, blazing trails for countless Latinos to engage, contribute, and mold the political fabric of our Golden State.”
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of Legacy Awards to three organizations that have been partners in championing the rights and wellbeing of Latino communities throughout California—California Rural Legal Assistance (CRLA), Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Foundation (MALDEF), United Farm Workers (UFW).
Eight regional representatives from across California were also acknowledged for earning the California Latino Legislative Caucus Foundation (CLLCF) Scholarship, created to assist deserving students by offering financial assistance for educational expenses. This year the CLLCF awarded a total of 61 scholarships worth $5,000 dollars each.
Since its creation in 1973, the California Latino Legislative Caucus has grown in number and stature. There are now a record 38 members, including 35 legislators, 3 constitutional officeholders, and a historic majority of 21 Latina members. The Caucus boasts a rich history of empowerment and legislative and political success, focusing primarily on improving the quality of life for California’s Latino working families.
