Press Releases 2009

Press Releases - November 2009

November 19, 2009 - LATINO LABOR LEADERS DENOUNCE WAGE VIOLATIONS AGAINST U.S. WORKERS: For Immediate Release                                                                                                                                       Contact: Andrea L. Delgado 202-230-6592
November 19, 2009                                                                                                                                                            Veronica Salas   202-286-3395

LATINO LABOR LEADERS DENOUNCE WAGE VIOLATIONS AGAINST U.S. WORKERS
LATINO AND IMMIGRANT WORKERS FACE HIGHER WAGE VIOLATION RATES THAN U.S. BORN

WASHINGTON, DC – A comprehensive study surveyed workers in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago to look at wage-law violations. The study provides the most thorough examination of wage-law violations in a decade. The report’s findings highlight that Latino workers have the highest rates of minimum and overtime wage-law violations of any racial/ethnic group. In response to these gross violations, the Department of Labor (DOL) has committed to hiring 250 new labor-law inspectors to ensure the enforcement of minimum wage, overtime and other laws and regulations. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) will launch anti-wage theft community outreach and education for all our local chapters throughout the United States, surveying various cities and pushing for advocacy at the local and national level.

The study surveyed 4,387 workers in various low-wage industries and found that they experienced a 15 percent weekly loss in pay. Immigrant Latino workers faced the highest minimum wage violation rates at 35.1 percent in comparison to 10.1 percent of their White counterparts. 40 percent of Latina workers were victims of minimum wage violations in comparison to 24 percent of Latino men. The highest incidence of these violations occurred among undocumented workers (37.6 percent) compared to 25.7 percent of documented workers. This reality is not unique to New York (27%), Chicago (26%) and Los Angeles (47%), cities with a high percentage of Latinos. Wage-law violations are ubiquitous and they highlight the importance of strengthening the enforcement of federal labor standards as well as workers’ ability to form unions and bargain collectively.

“Although Latinos and immigrants are more vulnerable, all workers are at risk of workplace violations. Union representation can change this by establishing fairness in the workplace. The passage of the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) is central to restoring policies that will improve the living conditions of working families. EFCA will allow workers to organize into unions without the fear of employer retaliation.   We will work with our national, regional and local LCLAA leaders to protect workers and stop wage-theft in our communities,” declared Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“Wage theft and other workplace violations will increase throughout the nation if workers continue to lack protection. Enforcement of the law is crucial in order for workers to stand up for their rights. EFCA is essential, but we also need a drastic overhaul of our immigration system with a just and humane plan that will not undermine workers’ rights as the status quo currently allows,” stated Yanira Merino, National Immigration Coordinator for the Laborers International Union of North America (LiUNA) and member of LCLAA’s Executive Board.

“Wage theft is a serious crime and in New York City we have seen several ludicrous cases of worker exploitation and workplace violations, and clever ways employers find to evade the law. We have workers who were made to cash their checks and return a portion of their money back to the employer. We want workers to know that whether you are in the union or not, we will fight for your rights and bring justice where it’s due. If you feel your rights have been violated contact New York City laborers at 212-465-7965,” added John Delgado, Business Representative, LiUNA local 79 and LCLAA Executive Board Member.

With an overtime violation rate of 80 percent among the workers surveyed, the findings illustrate that immigrants, documented and undocumented alike, are much more prone to wage violations. “Today we join Interfaith Worker Justice to call for fairness in the workplace and an end to workplace violations. LCLAA is committed to labor law reform and immigration reform that guarantees labor protections for all workers,” stated Jason M. Leon, LCLAA’s Executive Director.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation. Visit us at www.lclaa.org

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Noviembre 19, 2009 - SINDICALISTAS LATINOS DENUNCIAN VIOLACIONES AL PAGO ADECUADO DE LOS TRABAJADORES EN EEUU: Para Distribución Inmediata Contactar: Andrea L. Delgado 202.230.6592

19 de noviembre del 2009 Veronica Salas 202-286-3395

SINDICALISTAS LATINOS DENUNCIAN VIOLACIONES AL PAGO ADECUADO DE LOS TRABAJADORES EN EEUU

LOS LATINOS E IMMIGRANTES SON MAS VULNERABLES A LA EXPLOTACION LABORAL

Washington, DC - Un extenso estudio de trabajadores en Nueva York, Los Ángeles y Chicago investigó las violaciones a los salarios mínimos y al pago en horas extras de trabajo. La investigación destaca que los obreros latinos tienen el mayor nivel de violaciones al salario mínimo y horas extras comparado a cualquier otro grupo étnico. El Departamento del Trabajo (DOL) se comprometió a emplear a 250 nuevos inspectores para asegurar la aplicación de varias leyes y regulaciones laborales que protegen a los trabajadores. El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (LCLAA) impulsará la educación y la movilización de sus líderes y capítulos locales para investigar el robo salarial en varias ciudades y abogar contra esta práctica a nivel local y nacional.

El estudio incluyo a 4,387 trabajadores en varias industrias con salario mínimo y se descubrió que los trabajadores tenían una pérdida de un 15 por ciento en el salario en general. Igualmente se descubrió que la raza, género y estatus migratorio juegan un papel importante para determinar los grupos que tienden a tener un mayor riesgo de violaciones laborales. Los trabajadores inmigrantes enfrentan la mayor violación del estándar legal de salarios mínimos a un nivel de 35.1 por ciento en comparación con el 10.1 por ciento de sus colegas blancos. Y esto es peor para las mujeres, las latinas han sido víctimas de violación al salario mínimo en un 40 por ciento, en comparación con un 24 por ciento para todos los latinos. La incidencia mayor de estas violaciones ocurrió entre obreros indocumentados (37 por ciento) comparada al 25.7 por ciento de obreros documentados. El problema es aun más serio en las violaciones a pagar adecuadamente las horas extras de trabajo y se dan en un 80 por ciento de los inmigrantes (documentados e indocumentados) y en un 79 por ciento de los latinos. Aunque los abusos son más frecuentes entre los hispanos y los inmigrantes, las víctimas de robo salarial se encuentran en cualquier etnia o identidad y esta realidad no aplica solamente a las ciudades en las que se enfocó el estudio y con gran porcentaje de latinos: Nueva York (27%), Chicago (26%) y Los Ángeles (47%).

“Aunque los latinos e inmigrantes están más expuestos al robo salarial, todos los trabajadores estan en riesgo de ser víctimas de esta práctica. Es importante aplicar las leyes laborales por igual para poder unir a los obreros y poder negociar colectivamente sus derechos laborales. Los sindicatos tienen la habilidad de reinstalar un balance sano y justo al trabajo. La propuesta de ley de Libre Elección para el Empleado (EFCA por sus siglas en inglés) es central para crear una legislación que mejorará las condiciones de las familias trabajadoras y permitirá que los trabajadores se puedan formar y afiliarse a un sindicato sin miedo a ser despedidos,“ señaló Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA.

“El robo salarial y otras medidas que violentan las leyes laborales aumentarán a través del país si los trabajadores siguen siendo desprotegidos. La aplicación de las leyes es clave para que los trabajadores puedan defender sus derechos en el lugar de trabajo. La aprobación de EFCA es importante pero también necesitamos una reforma de nuestras leyes migratorias hasta crear un plan justo y humano que no permita que se sigan violando los derechos humanos y laborales de todo trabajador, cómo lo permite el sistema actual,” declaró Yanira Merino, Directora de Inmigración del Sindicato Internacional de Obreros de Norte América (LiUNA por sus siglas en inglés) y miembro de la Junta Ejecutiva de LCLAA.

“El robo salarial es un crimen serio y en la ciudad de Nueva York, con frecuencia vemos casos de explotación laboral y medidas por empleadores astutos que buscan evadir la ley laboral. Tenemos trabajadores a quienes les entregaron sus cheques y el empleador pidió que los hicieran en efectivo y después, que devolvieran parte de sus ganancias. Queremos informar a los trabajadores que lucharemos por sus derechos y la justicia en el trabajo sin importar si son miembros de un sindicato o no. Si piensa que su empleador ha violado sus derechos laborales comuníquese con LIUNA en Nueva York llamando al 212-465-7965,” indicó John Delgado, Representante del local 79 del sindicato LiUNA en Nueva York y miembro de la Junta Ejecutiva de LCLAA.

Los inmigrantes documentados al igual que los indocumentados son mucho más propensos a ser víctimas de violaciones al pago de horas extras, ya que el 80 por ciento de los inmigrantes encuestados reportaron haber sido afectados. “Esta discrepancia recalca la importancia de impulsar una reforma migratoria justa y humana. LCLAA seguirá abogando para lograr una reforma de la ley laboral y la ley migratoria. Mientras tanto, los trabajadores pueden llamar a la oficina nacional de LCLAA al 202-508-6919 si desea comunicarse con sindicatos en la zona que usted vive o trabaja,” dijo Héctor E. Sánchez, Director de Política e Investigación de LCLAA.

El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL-CIO como a la Change to Win Federation.

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Noviembre 12, 2009 - DECLARACIÓN DE LCLAA SOBRE LA RESIGNACIÓN DE LOU DOBBS DEL CANAL CNN: For Immediate Release
November 12, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

DECLARACIÓN DE LCLAA SOBRE LA RESIGNACIÓN DE LOU DOBBS DEL CANAL CNN

WASHINGTON, DC – El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (LCLAA) es una organización nacional de abogacía que representa los intereses de más de 1,7 millones de sindicalistas latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA, afiliada a la campaña Drop Dobbs declaró lo siguiente en reacción a la renuncia del presentador Lou Dobbs del canal CNN.

“Ahora que Lou Dobbs se ha retirado de CNN, esperamos que se fomente un dialogo inteligente y objetivo sobre varios temas que afectan al País. La retórica maligna de Lou Dobbs no merece una plataforma nacional en un canal respetable cuando hay familias por todo el país que están viviendo en carne propia las consecuencias de las actitudes en contra de los Latinos e inmigrantes dado a un aumento de un 40 por ciento en los crímenes de odio reportados en contra de los latinos de año 2003 al 2007,” declaró Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA.

“Los mensajes propagados por Lou Dobbs sobre los latinos e inmigrantes son deshonestos y carecen de fundamento. Su programa es una contradicción al compromiso de CNN de proveer a su audiencia la verdad de los hechos en sus informativos y pone en riesgo la seguridad publica al igual que los derechos humanos y civiles de todos,” añadió Jason M. Leon, Director Ejecutivo de LCLAA.

“Debemos hacer que los medios de comunicaciones se responsabilicen por sus mensajes. LCLAA y varias organizaciones afiliadas a la campaña Drop Dobbs dieron un alto a la provocación del odio. Muchas vidas están en riesgo y lo único que logra con sus mensajes es hacer de este país un lugar peligroso para todos los latinos, sean ciudadanos, inmigrantes, documentados o indocumentados. La noticia de su resignación nos alegra,” añadió Héctor E. Sánchez, Director de Política e Investigación de LCLAA.

El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL-CIO como a la Federación Change to Win. WWW.LCLAA.ORG

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November 12, 2009 - LCLAA STATEMENT ON LOU DOBBS’ RESIGNATION FROM CNN: For Immediate Release
November 12, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA STATEMENT ON LOU DOBBS’ RESIGNATION FROM CNN

WASHINGTON, DC – The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) is a national advocacy organization representing the interests of 1.7 million Latino (a) trade unionists throughout the United States and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA, a member of the Drop Dobbs campaign made the following statement responding to Lou Dobbs’ resignation as the longtime anchor of CNN.

“We anticipate that Lou Dobbs’ departure from CNN will advance an intelligent and balanced dialogue on a wide range of issues affecting the nation. Lou Dobbs’ hateful rhetoric does not deserve a national platform on a respectable news network when families across the country are experiencing the human cost of anti-immigrant sentiment as reported hate crimes against Latinos increased by nearly 40 percent between 2003-2007,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“Dobbs’s baseless and dishonest messaging targeting Latinos and immigrants contradicts CNN’s commitment to “straight-facts” and it jeopardizes public safety and the human and civil rights of all,” added Jason M. Leon, LCLAA’s Executive Director.

“We must hold the media accountable. LCLAA and several organizations took a stand against hate and fear mongering. There are human lives on the line and his messages make this nation unsafe for all Latinos, citizens, immigrants, documented and undocumented alike. We are glad Dobbs will be moving on,” stated Hector E. Sanchez, LCLAA’s Director of Policy and Research.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation. Visit our website at " www.lclaa.org

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Press Releases - October 2009

October 30, 2009 - LCLAA GETS OUT THE LATINO VOTE IN VINELAND AND ATLANTIC CITY: For Immediate Release Contactar: Andrea Delgado 631-456-1102

October 30, 2009 Hector E. Sanchez 202-251-0046

LCLAA GETS OUT THE LATINO VOTE IN VINELAND AND ATLANTIC CITY

BILLINGUAL VOLUNTEERS PROMOTE CIVIC PARTICIPATION IN NEW JERSEY’S GOVERNOR’S RACE

WASHINGTON, D.C.- The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) is a 36 year old national Latino organization that advocates for the interests of Latino working families and promotes their civic engagement. Through its non-partisan voter education and GOTV campaign named ‘Tu Voz es Mi Voz’, LCLAA is mobilizing its staff, members and volunteers to educate and get out the Latino vote. Over the past three weeks, LCLAA’s has been on the ground in Vineland and Atlantic City, New Jersey, distributing information to Latino voters about the November 3^rd Governor’s race. The outreach efforts have been concentrated in Vineland, NJ. LCLAA promotes the political advancement of the Latino community through civic participation and on Saturday, Monday and Tuesday, volunteers will be knocking on doors from 10 AM to 2 PM to make sure that registered voters are well informed about their rights and responsibilities when they head to the polls on November 3^rd. LCLAA is also offering transportation to the polling sites to facilitate the process.

Latino voters are gaining political clout as they add millions of new citizens and young adults to voter registries. Latinos can play a pivotal role in the politics of almost every state. In New Jersey, Latinos constitute 15.9 percent of the state’s population and 9.3 percent of all voters in the 2008 election.

Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President stated, “The right to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy and we must exercise it between Presidential elections. We want to make sure U.S. citizens have all the information they need to vote in the upcoming Governor’s race. For over 36 years LCLAA has been educating and engaging Latinos in the political process; organizing town halls, knocking on doors and distributing bilingual information. We have done this directly as well as through Spanish language media.”

“Latinos are a key and growing constituency and can play a crucial role in these and every election. We are doing all we can to prevent voter suppression by reaching out and informing voters of their rights and responsibilities so that these are respected and their votes are counted,” added Jason M. Leon, LCLAA’s Executive Director.

You can receive assistance when voting if you don’t speak English, if you cannot read, or have difficulties reading, or if you are blind or physically disabled. Anyone can assist you when voting except for your employer, an agent of your employer or an officer of your union. Do not wear any clothing or accessories representing any candidate or political campaign at the polling site, leave it at home or cover it up or you will be asked to remove it. Once you’ve cast your vote, if you’re not sure whether your vote was counted, ask a poll worker for help.

“Your vote is your voice. This is an opportunity for Latinos to make their voice heard and we want eligible voters to have all the information they need and know that it is illegal for anyone to try to deny them their right to vote. We are also offering transportation to the polls to facilitate the participation of Latinos in the political process,” declared Hector E. Sanchez, LCLAA’s Director of Policy and Research.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA, is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.

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October 30, 2009 - LCLAA INCENTIVA EL VOTO LATINO EN VINELAND Y ATLANTIC CITY: Para difusión inmediata Contactar: Andrea Delgado 631-456-1102

30 de octubre de 2009 Héctor E. Sánchez 202-251-0046

LCLAA INCENTIVA EL VOTO LATINO EN VINELAND Y ATLANTIC CITY

VOLUNTARIOS BILINGÜES TOCAN PUERTAS PARA PROMOVER LA PARTICIPACIÓN DE LATINOS EN EL PROCESO POLÍTICO

VINELAND, D.C. – El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (LCLAA) es una organización nacional que ha abogado por los trabajadores latinos por más de 36 años. LCLAA ha movilizado a su personal y a voluntarios para su campaña titulada ‘Tu Voz es Mi Voz’, cuyo propósito es promover la participación de la comunidad Latina en el proceso político. Desde hace más de tres semanas, la campaña de LCLAA se encuentra en Vineland y Atlantic City, Nueva Jersey; tocando puertas de electores latinos y distribuyendo información sobre las elecciones a Gobernador. La campaña de educación cívica se ha enfocado en Vineland. Este sábado, lunes y martes, miembros y voluntarios de LCLAA tocarán puertas de 10 de la mañana a 2 de la tarde para asegurarse que los nuevos votantes estén bien informados de sus derechos cuando vayan a las urnas, y ofrecer transportación para aquellos que lo necesiten el martes 3 de noviembre; el día de las elecciones.

Los Latinos han batido un record en el número de nuevas adiciones a sus registros de votantes y pueden tener un rol decisivo en casi todos los estados. En Nueva Jersey, los Latinos constituyen el 15.9 por ciento de la población del estado y el 9.3 por ciento de todos los electores que emitieron su voto en las elecciones del 2008.

Milton Rosado, el presidente nacional de LCLAA declaró, “El derecho al voto es la base de nuestra democracia. Queremos cerciorarnos que la comunidad Latina esté bien informada sobre todo el proceso de las elecciones a Gobernador. Desde más de 36 años, LCLAA ha estado informando e involucrando a los Latinos sobre el proceso político, reuniéndolos en juntas de información al público, tocando puertas y repartiendo información bilingüe sobre las elecciones y los derechos de los votantes, directamente y a través de los medios de comunicaciones.”

“Los Latinos son un grupo electoral que jugarán un papel decisivo en estas elecciones. Estamos haciendo todo lo posible para prevenir la represión del voto, informando a los votantes de sus derechos y sus responsabilidades para que sean respetados y que sus votos sean contados,” agregó Jason M. León Director Ejecutivo de LCLAA.

Usted puede pedir ayuda si no habla Ingles, no puede leer, o tiene dificultades al leer, o si usted es ciego o tiene alguna discapacidad física. Cualquier persona le puede ayudar mientras vota, siempre y cuando no sea su empleador, un agente de su empleador o un oficial de su sindicato. No porte ropa ni accesorios que representen algún candidato o partido político en el sitio electoral, déjelos en casa o cúbraselos o le pedirán que se los quite. Si no está seguro si su voto fue contado después que lo haya emitido, usted está en su derecho de preguntar a un trabajador de las urnas que le ayude.

Héctor E. Sánchez, Director de Política e Investigación agregó, “Su voto es su voz. Su voz tiene fuerza y las elecciones son una oportunidad para que los Latinos se hagan escuchar. Queremos que todos los votantes aptos para votar tengan la información necesaria para hacerlo y que sepan que es ilegal que alguien trate de negarles sus derechos al voto. Queremos facilitar la participación en el proceso político y estamos ofreciendo transportación a las urnas el día de las elecciones.”

Para saber dónde tiene que votar en Nueva Jersey, llame al 1-877-658-6837. Este número está disponible las 24 horas.

El Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la cede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo de electores potenciales que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL‐CIO como a la federación Change to Win. Visitenos www.lclaa.org

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October 29, 2009 - PPRESIDENTE OBAMA FIRMA LEY PARA EVITAR LOS CRÍMENES DE ODIO: Para publicación inmediata Contactar: Andrea Delgado
29 de octubre del 2009 202-637-5120/ 631-456-1102

PRESIDENTE OBAMA FIRMA LEY PARA EVITAR LOS CRÍMENES DE ODIO

LEGISLACIÓN ES CLAVE PARA PROTEGER A LATINOS E INMIGRANTES

WASHINGTON, D.C. - El Presidente Barack Obama firmó ayer el proyecto de ley para proteger a todos de crímenes de odio. La semana pasada, el Senado aprobó el proyecto de ley por un voto de 68 a 29. La Ley titulada "Prevención de Crímenes de Odio Matthew Shepard y James Byrd, Jr." conmemora a dos victimas que perdieron sus vidas a causa de prejuicios basados en la orientación sexual y la raza del individuo. LCLAA agradece al Presidente Obama por convertir este proyecto legislativo en ley y escuchar el llamado de muchos que como LCLAA piden justicia y protección para todos los seres humanos sin importar su raza, nacionalidad, religión, orientación sexual, género o incapacidad.

Un reporte del FBI reporte demuestra que los ataques en contra de los Latinos aumentaron en un 40 por ciento del año 2003 al 2007 y en el año 2007 los hispanos representaron el 61.7 por ciento de todas las victimas de crímenes motivados por la raza o la nacionalidad de la persona.

Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA declaró, “Los delitos de aquellos que violentan los derechos humanos y civiles no quedarán impunes. Le agradecemos al Presidente Obama por reconocer la grave situación que enfrentan muchos en este país, en particular los Latinos que constituimos la mayoría de las victimas de crímenes de odio."

“Con esta ley esperamos que se aumente los esfuerzos para investigar e iniciar procedimientos criminales a nivel federal de crímenes de todo crimen de odio y llegar al fondo de los asesinatos de Jose Sucuzhanay, Marcelo Lucero y Luis Ramírez," así lo dijo Jason M. León, Director Ejecutivo de LCLAA.

“Celebramos la implementación de esta ley y anticipamos que el próximo paso para asegurar los derechos de los Latinos en este país sea una reforma migratoria justa para los trabajadores,” adhirió Héctor E. Sánchez, Director de Política y Investigación para LCLAA.

El Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (LCLAA) es la cede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo de electores potenciales que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL‐CIO como a la federación Change to Win. www.lclaa.org

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October 29, 2009 - PRESIDENT OBAMA SIGNS HATE CRIMES PREVENTION ACT INTO LAW: For Immediate Release Contact: Andrea Delgado

October 29, 2009 202-637-5120/ 631-456-1102

PRESIDENT OBAMA SIGNS HATE CRIMES PREVENTION ACT INTO LAW

ENACTMENT OF THIS LAW IS KEY TO PROTECT LATINOS AND IMMIGRANTS

WASHINGTON, DC- Yesterday, President Obama signed into law the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act. The legislation strengthens existing hate crimes protections for the categories including race, color, religion, national origin and ethnicity and also extends important protections to victims of violent hate crimes committed based on a person's actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and/or disability. The law’s name commemorates two victims of hate crimes based on the individual’s sexual orientation and their race. LCLAA applauds President Obama for enacting this crucial piece of legislation.

A 2008 FBI report illustrated a 40 percent increase in attacks against Latinos between 2003 and in 2007, they represented 61.7% of all victims of crimes motivated by the victims’ ethnicity or national origin.

Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President stated, “Crimes committed by those that violate the human and civil rights of any human being must not go unpunished. LCLAA thanks President Obama for recognizing the precarious situation facing many in this country, particularly Latinos who constitute the majority of hate crimes’ victims.”

“These protections have now become federal law. We hope it will help initiate criminal proceedings that will get to the bottom of hate crime cases and achieve justice for people like Jose Sucuzhanay, Marcelo Lucero and Luis Ramírez,” stated Jason M. Leon, LCLAA’s Executive Director.

“We celebrate the implementation of this law but there is much more work to be done to ensure the rights of Latinos in this country. We need humane and just immigration reform to protect Latino working families in this country,” added Hector E. Sanchez, LCLAA’s Director of Policy and Research.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA, is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers both theAFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.

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October 23 2009 - LCLAA CELEBRA LA APROBACION DE UN PROYECTO DE LEY PARA EVITAR LOS CRIMENES DE ODIO: Para difusión inmediata Contactar: Andrea Delgado
23 de octubre del 2009 202-637-5120

LCLAA CELEBRA LA APROBACION DE UN PROYECTO DE LEY PARA EVITAR LOS CRIMENES DE ODIO

PROYECTO DE LEY ES CLAVE PARA PROTEGER A LATINOS E INMIGRANTES

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Por un voto de 68 a 29, el Senado aprobó un proyecto de ley para proteger a todos de crímenes de odio. El proyecto de ley conmemora a Matthew Shepard y James Byrd, Jr., dos victimas de crímenes de odio. LCLAA celebra la aprobación de este proyecto de ley y anticipa la firma del Presidente Obama para implementarla lo más pronto posible.

En el año 2007 los hispanos representaron el 61.7 por ciento de todas las victimas de crímenes motivados por la etnicidad, raza u origen nacional de la persona. El reporte del FBI reporte demuestra que los ataques en contra de los Latinos aumentaron en un 40 por ciento del año 2003 al 2007, los años en los cuales el tema de inmigración se convirtió en el centro del debate nacional.

Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA declaró, “Ya era hora. Muchos han muerto por los prejuicios de individuos que atentan contra la vida de un ser humano por su género, orientación sexual, raza, religión o nacionalidad. Con esta ley esperamos que se aumente los esfuerzos para investigar e iniciar procedimientos criminales a nivel federal de crímenes de odio.”

“Agradecemos al Senado por reconocer la gravedad de este problema y el costo humano que ha tenido en la comunidad Latina. LCLAA se solidariza con todas las familias que han perdido un ser querido por crímenes de odio y no han recibido justicia,” así lo dijo Jason M. León, Director Ejecutivo de LCLAA.

“Hoy día recordamos a Jose Sucuzhanay, Marcelo Lucero y a Luis Ramírez y esperamos que no hayan perdido sus vidas en vano y que esta ley honre su memoria. De igual manera resaltamos la importancia de la aprobación de una reforma migratoria justa y humana, sin la cual los Latinos e inmigrantes seguirán siendo el blanco de los crímenes de odio en este país,” adhirió Héctor E. Sánchez, Director de Política y Investigación para LCLAA.

El Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (LCLAA) es la cede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo de electores potenciales que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL‐CIO como a la federación Change to Win.

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October 15, 2009 - LCLAA PIDE SOLIDARIDAD DEL MOVIMIENTO LABORAL CON PUERTO RICO: Para publicación inmediata Contacto: Andrea L. Delgado

15 de octubre de 2009 202-637-5120

MOBILIZACIÓN MASIVA EN PUERTO RICO EN CONTRA DE POLÍTICAS NEGATIVAS

LCLAA SE SOLIDARIZA CON LOS TRABAJADORES DE PUERTO RICO

WASHINGTON, DC- Por más de 35 años LCLAA ha abogado por el bienestar de las familias trabajadoras latinas a través de los Estados Unidos y del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. Hoy día, LCLAA reafirma su apoyo a los trabajadores de Puerto Rico, uniéndose a las voces de oposición a los despidos de más de 30 mil trabajadores, propuestos por la Ley Pública 7. En la Isla del Encanto, miles de trabajadores y líderes representando a las comunidades gremiales y religiosas encabezan una marcha masiva para oponerse a las políticas fallidas del gobernador Fortuño y declarar que los despidos son injustos e inaceptables.

Puerto Rico enfrenta una crisis económica y altas tazas de desempleo. La Ley Pública 7 violenta los derechos de los trabajadores al suspender todos los convenios colectivos, aumentos de sueldos y beneficios para los empleados públicos. Legislar los despidos de miles de trabajadores en varios ministerios, incluyendo salud, transportación, seguridad pública y otros servicios sociales contradice el propósito del paquete de estimulo (ARRA por sus siglas en inglés) de incentivar y estabilizar la economía de la Isla. Tal medida evitará que estos fondos sean asignados de una manera eficaz y oportuna. Un recorte masivo de empleados públicos fundamentalmente limita la capacidad del gobierno de proveer servicios a sus ciudadanos cuando más lo necesitan.

“Puerto Rico ha recibido los fondos del paquete de estimulo para incentivar la creación de trabajos y el crecimiento económico en la Isla. Lo que la Ley Pública 7 logrará será empeorar la situación económica para miles de familias trabajadoras en Puerto Rico. Queremos que el gobernador Fortuño se de cuenta que este golpe para los trabajadores de la isla es un golpe recibido por todos los que luchamos por los derechos de los trabajadores. Estamos comprometidos con los empleados de Puerto Rico y nos aseguraremos que los activistas y líderes gremiales a través de los Estados Unidos se informen de este injusticia impuesta por el gobierno actual,” declaró Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA.

“La marcha de hoy y la Asamblea del Pueblo ha sido la manifestación más contundente contra las políticas fallidas de una administración. Convocado por los sindicatos, el pueblo se une para repudiar los despidos de más de 30,000 empleados públicos, la eliminación de los convenios colectivos y la política de privatización,” agregó José Rodríguez Baéz, Presidente de la Federación de Trabajadores de Puerto Rico (AFL-CIO).

LCLAA se ha comunicado al Presidente Obama y a los miembros del Caucus Hispano del Congreso para exigir atención a la Ley Pública 7 y los efectos perjudiciales para los trabajadores de la isla. Le urgimos al gobernador Fortuño que revoque esta ley negativa. Los capítulos de LCLAA organizarán eventos a través del país en solidaridad con los empleados públicos en Puerto Rico. Estaremos al tanto de esta situación y seguiremos colaborando con los líderes sindicalistas de la isla para que se respete los derechos laborales y los convenios colectivos de todos los trabajadores.

El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral latino. Es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. Se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores latinos y sus familias. Aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. Es un grupo que representa a los trabajadores latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL-CIO como a la Federación Change to Win.

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October 15, 2009 - LCLAA CALLS ON U.S. LABOR MOVEMENT TO STAND IN SOLIDARITY WITH PUERTO RICO: For Immediate Release Contact: Andrea L. Delgado

October 15, 2009 202-637-5120

MASSIVE MARCH IN PUERTO RICO IN REACTION TO POLICIES HARMFUL TO WORKERS LCLAA CALLS ON LABOR MOVEMENT TO STAND IN SOLIDARITY WITH PUERTO RICO

WASHINGTON, DC – For over 35 years the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) has advocated for the interests of Latino working families throughout the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Today, LCLAA stands in solidarity with the workers of Puerto Rico in opposition to the implementation of Public Law 7, a 30,000- worker layoff plan. In Puerto Rico, community, faith and labor leaders from across the Island will gather for a mass demonstration to stand up and tell Governor Fortuño his policies and planned layoffs are unacceptable.

At a time of economic crisis and high unemployment rates for workers in the island, Public Law 7 violates workers’ rights by suspending all collective bargaining, wage and benefit increases, and other rights and benefits for public workers. Public Law 7 undermines the goals of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The massive layoff plan outlines staff cuts in major health and human services, transportation, and public safety departments, an initiative that not only threatens the Commonwealth’s capacity to use ARRA funds in a timely, effective and accountable manner, but also prevents the Commonwealth from providing quality public services to citizens in need.

“Puerto Rico has received stimulus funds with the purpose to create jobs and restore economic growth. Public Law 7 is fundamentally contradictory to this purpose and will only jeopardize the prospect for a sustainable recovery in Puerto Rico. We want Governor Fortuño to know that an attack on the workers of Puerto Rico is an attack on all who fight for workers’ rights and that we are committed to ensuring that every Latino(a) activist and trade unionist is aware about it,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

"Today’s march and the People's Assembly is a clear demonstration of opposition to the government's policies. Convened by labor unions, Puerto Rico is unified in repudiation of the lay-offs of more than 30,000 public sector workers, the elimination of collective bargaining agreements and policies that promote privatization,” stated Jose Rodriguez Baez, the President of the Puerto Rico Federation of Labor (AFL-CIO)

LCLAA has brought this labor concern to the attention of President Obama and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. We now call on Governor Fortuño to rescind this flawed economic policy. In solidarity with Puerto Rico’s public sector workers, LCLAA’s chapters will be holding events throughout the U.S. We will follow the developments of Public Law 7 closely and will advocate vigorously to put an end to this harmful policy.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation. Visit us at www.lclaa.org

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October 8, 2009 - ENMIENDA FALLIDA PROPONE EXCLUIR A LATINOS: Para publicación inmediata Contacto: Andrea L. Delgado

8 de Octubre de 2009 202-285-1008

LCLAA SE OPONE A LA ENMIENDA DE LOS SENADORES VITTER Y BENNETT

ENMIENDA FALLIDA PROPONE NO CONTAR A TODOS EN EL CENSO

WASHINGTON, D.C.- El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (LCLAA por sus siglas en inglés) se opone rotundamente a la Enmienda 2644 a la ley de apropiaciones Comercio y Justicia para el año fiscal 2010. Por más de 35 años LCLAA ha abogado por el bienestar de las familias trabajadoras latinas a través de los Estados Unidos y del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico y estamos comprometidos a asegurar Censo pueda contar correctamente a toda la población en el 2010. Recomendamos que el Senado se oponga a la Enmienda propuesta por el Senador Vitter (R-LA). Fundamentalmente, la enmienda contradice el propósito de la Constitución Estadounidense al querer prevenir un conteo correcto y completo en el Censo de cada decenio. La Enmienda Vitter quiere intimidar y prevenir una participación extensa en el Censo al querer incluir una pregunta relacionada con el estatus de ciudadanía y/o migratorio.

La Enmienda XIV de la Constitución Estadounidense declara que la asignación de miembros a la Cámara de Representantes este basada en un conteo completo de todas las personas que viven en cada estado. Esta enmienda fue promulgada para revocar una cláusula de la Constitución que consideraba a los esclavos como tres-quintos de una persona en el ámbito de asignación electoral. La Enmienda Vitter evoca memorias de un pasado vergonzoso.

Preguntar sobre el estatus migratorio en el sondeo del Censo es innecesario e impertinente. Lo que logrará será preocupar a los participantes ciudadanos al igual que los inmigrantes ya que dudarán de la confidencialidad de la información que darán al gobierno. Esto impedirá que muchas personas participen en el Censo y resultará en una cuenta incompleta de la población del País. El gobierno local, estatal y federal, y los comerciantes dependen de una cuenta correcta y actual para tomar decisiones sobre políticas que afectan varios aspectos del bienestar nacional en el ámbito de la educación, la vivienda, la transportación, la salud y la seguridad pública. Una cuenta incompleta arriesgará la prosperidad del País.

Si la Enmienda Vitter es aprobada, retrasará el envió del cuestionario del Censo esta primavera. También limitará la asignación electoral después del 2010 y la redistribución de distritos electorales a nivel estatal y federal. En sí, esta Enmienda echaría a perder más de 7 mil millones de dólares que se han invertido en la planificación y la preparación para el Censo de este decenio.

LCLAA está movilizando a su membrecía a través del País para asegurarse que se comuniquen con sus Senadores y sugerirles que apoyen un conteo completo y rechacen cualquier propuesta que proponga lo contrario a esta meta.

El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL-CIO como a la Federación Change to Win.

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October 8, 2009 - FLAWED AMENDMENT SEEKS TO PREVENT ACCURATE: For Immediate Release Contact: Andrea L. Delgado

October 8, 2009 202-285-1008

LCLAA OPPOSES VITTER-BENNETT AMENDMENT

FLAWED AMENDMENT SEEKS TO PREVENT ACCURATE COUNT OF LATINOS

Washington, DC – The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) strongly opposes Vitter Amendment #2644 to the Commerce Justice and Science FY10 Appropriations. For over 35 years, the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) has advocated for the interests of Latino working families throughout the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and we are deeply committed to ensuring that the Census Bureau provides our nation with the most accurate count of its population in 2010. We strongly recommend that the Senate votes against the Vitter Amendment. The amendment fundamentally undermines the goal of the U.S. Constitution, which is to ensure that we have an accurate portrait of America in every decennial Census. In lieu of advancing this goal, the Vitter Amendment seeks to intimidate and prevent individuals from participating in the 2010 Census.

The 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution clearly states that the apportionment of members of the House of Representatives is based on a full count of residents in each state. This amendment was enacted in part to repeal the provisions in Article I of the Constitution which counted slaves as only three-fifths of a person for apportionment purposes – the Vitter Amendment evokes this shameful legacy.

Asking about immigration status in the 2010 Census is unnecessarily intrusive and will raise concerns among all respondents – both native-born and immigrant – about the confidentiality, and privacy of the information provided to the government. This will deter many residents from responding, and result in an inaccurate Census count. Accurate Census data is critical for both the government and the business community, which rely on this type of data to make sound decisions about policies affecting every aspect of our nation’s well-being including: education, housing, transportation, health and public safety. An inaccurate count will jeopardize America’s future prosperity.

If enacted, the Vitter Amendment would also stop the 2010 Census in its tracks and prevent Census forms from being mailed next spring. This would severely impair the Congressional reapportionment after 2010 and redistricting of congressional and state legislative districts. Ultimately, the Vitter Amendment would waste $7 billion in research, planning, and preparation that has occurred for Census 2010.

LCLAA is mobilizing its membership nationwide to ensure that they voice their concerns to their Senators and push for an accurate count of all people in the U.S.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA, is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers both theAFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.

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Press Releases - September 2009

September 18, 2009 - LCLAA JOINS DROP DOBBS CAMPAIGN: For Immediate Release Contact: Andrea L. Delgado

September 18, 2009 202-637-5120

LCLAA JOINS DROP DOBBS CAMPAIGN

ADVERTISERS OF CNN’S LOU DOBBS TONIGHT MUST STOP FINANCING HATEFUL RHETORIC

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, in reaction to the hate rhetoric that has incited fear and malice towards Latinos and immigrants, the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) joined the www.DropDobbs.com campaign and 15 other groups calling on companies that advertise on CNN’s Lou Dobbs Tonight to discontinue their financial contribution to a show that misinforms and promotes hate and intolerance among the American public. Anti-immigrant and xenophobic views expressed in this show exact a human toll reflected in the latest FBI Hate Crimes Report. As of 2007, Latinos constitute 62 percent of victims of crimes motivated by prejudice due to the victim’s ethnicity or national origin. The report also highlights that since 2003, hate crimes against Latinos has risen by 40 percent.

“These alarming numbers have a human face. Jose Sucuzhanay- an Ecuadorean immigrant – was savagely attacked with an aluminum bat in an apparent anti-Latino and antigay act. His assailants interpreted the embrace of two brothers as a homosexual display of affection. Also, Marcelo Lucero - another Ecuadorean immigrant - died after a fatal stab to the chest by a gang of teens looking for ‘Mexicans’ to beat up. Luis Ramirez from Shenandoah, Pennsylvania - a Mexican immigrant – is another recent victim; his aggressors were recently convicted of assault but acquitted of the most serious state charges in the beating that led to his death. For Latinos, public safety is in jeopardy and these crimes as well as the rhetoric that incite them warrant national attention to protect all people from acts motivated by intolerance,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“We call on the sponsors of Lou Dobbs Tonight to refrain from funding programs that essentially incite hate and violence in communities nationwide. This is about accountability. CNN and the companies that sponsor Lou Dobbs Tonight must acknowledge the human cost and suffering that such views incur on our communities. We have asked of CNN to bring greater clarity, balance and accuracy to the national discourse on immigration and will continue to do so to ensure that a message of xenophobia and intolerance is not what advertisers and a respectable news network intend to communicate to Latinos. We will reach out to sponsors of the Lou Dobbs Tonight show to inform them of his connection to FAIR so that they may consider the implications of being associated with a hate group,” added Jason M. Leon, LCLAA’s Executive Director.

Lou Dobbs consistently reports on erroneous and fictional information and disseminates racist myths that he validates in his show. His show serves as a platform for xenophobic and anti-immigrant organizations such as the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) which has been listed as a hate group by the Southern Law Poverty Center (SPLC). This is unacceptable for a news outlet that calls itself “The Most Trusted Name in News”. Messages that single out Latinos as threats to the nation will only heighten racial tensions and encourage an environment conducive to violence against human beings simply because of who they are and where they come from, “stated Hector E. Sanchez, LCLAA’s Director of Policy and Research.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation. Visit our website at www.lclaa.org

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September 18, 2009 - LCLAA Se Une a la Campaña DROP DOBBS: Para difusión inmediata Contactar: Andrea L. Delgado

18 de septiembre de 2009 202-637-5120

LCLAA SE UNE A LA CAMPAÑA “DROP DOBBS”

COMPAÑIAS QUE FINANCIAN EL SHOW DE LOU DOBBS PROMUEVEN LA INTOLERANCIA

WASHINGTON, DC – En reacción a la retórica que instiga odio y malicia en contra los latinos y los inmigrantes, el Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (LCLAA por sus siglas en inglés) se une a la campaña www.DropDobbs.com. Esta coalición de más de 15 grupos insta a aquellos que compran publicidad en el programa “Lou Dobbs Tonight” de CNN, a terminar su contribución monetaria a un programa que mal informa al público y promueve el odio y la intolerancia. Los mensajes expresados en este programa son antiinmigrantes y xenófobos y tienen una correlación directa con el rápido crecimiento de los crímenes de odio contra los latinos que recientemente reporto el FBI. En el 2007, los latinos constituyeron el 62 por ciento de todas las victimas de crímenes de odio motivados por la raza o la nacionalidad de la persona. El reporte resalta que desde el 2003, los crímenes de odio en contra los Latinos han aumentado un 40 por ciento.

“Esta situación es alarmante y es mucho más que una estadística. Jose Sucuzhanay, un inmigrante Ecuatoriano fue atacado salvajemente con un bate de metal en un acto aparentemente en contra de los latinos y los homosexuales. Sus agresores malinterpretaron el abrazo de dos hermanos como un acto homosexual. Marcelo Lucero, otro inmigrante Ecuatoriano, falleció después de ser acuchillado en el pecho por un grupo de jóvenes que estaban buscando a Mexicanos para golpearlos. Luis Ramírez de Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, un inmigrante Mexicano, es otra victima. Sus agresores fueron declarados culpables de asalto pero después fueron absueltos de los cargos más serios. Para los latinos, la seguridad esta en juego y estos crímenes al igual que la retórica que los instigan deben tener atención a nivel nacional para que toda persona este protegida de estos actos motivados por la intolerancia,” señaló Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA.

“Pedimos que los auspiciadores del programa Lou Dobbs Tonight dejen de financiar a programas que provocan odio y violencia en nuestras comunidades. Esto es una cuestión de responsabilidad. Queremos que CNN y las compañías que auspician a Lou Dobbs Tonight reconozcan el costo humano y el sufrimiento que este tipo de mensajes causan. Hemos pedido a CNN que de una cobertura franca y balanceada del sobre el tema de inmigración y seguiremos abogando por esto. Un mensaje xenófobo e intolerante no es lo que CNN ni ninguna otra compañía quiere comunicar a los latinos. LCLAA les informara a los auspiciadores del programa Lou Dobbs Tonight sobre su relación con el grupo FAIR para que consideren las implicaciones de ser relacionados con un grupo de odio,“ así lo declaró Jason M. León, Director Ejecutivo de LCLAA.

“Sistemáticamente, Lou Dobbs da un mensaje erróneo, propagando información ficticia y racista. Este tipo de reportaje no es digno de un canal de noticias serio. Su show le da el espacio a organizaciones antiinmigrantes como la Federación para la Reforma Migratoria Americana (FAIR por sus siglas en inglés), que ha sido declarada como un “grupo de odio” por el Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC por sus siglas en inglés), una organización y firma de abogados que lucha por los derechos civiles desde 1971. Mensajes que representan a los latinos como amenazas al país solamente empeoran las tensiones raciales y crea un ambiente que facilitan la violencia contra seres humanos simplemente por su color u origen,” añadió Héctor E. Sánchez, Director de Política e Investigación de LCLAA.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation. Visit our website at www.lclaa.org

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September 17, 2009 - LCLAA DA LA BIENVENIDA A RICH, ARLENE Y LIZ COMO LIDERES DEL AFL-CIO: Para Difusión Inmediata
17 de Septiembre de 2009

Contacto: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA DA LA BIENVENIDA A RICH, ARLENE Y LIZ COMO LIDERES DEL AFL-CIO
PROPONEN CREAR UN MOVIMIENTO LABORAL MÁS FUERTE Y DIVERSO

WASHINGTON, DC - Del 13 al 17 de Septiembre, la Federación Americana del Trabajo y Congreso de las Organizaciones Industriales (AFL-CIO por sus siglas en inglés) convocó a su vigésimo sexta convención constitucional en la cual se reunieron más de mil delegados y alrededor de dos mil invitados. Los delegados votaron por sus nuevos líderes y eligieron a Richard Trumka como su Presidente, Arlene Holt-Baker como vicepresidente ejecutiva y a Liz Shuler como Tesorera. Esta fue una elección histórica ya que Liz Shuler se convierte en la primera mujer que asume uno de los más altos rangos del AFL-CIO.

“Los trabajadores enfrentan grandes retos actualmente. La situación económica resalta la importancia de afiliarse a un sindicato para obtener buenos trabajos que paguen buenos sueldos y provean beneficios vitales. Ahora más que nunca es esencial que el movimiento laboral lidere en los temas de alta importancia para las familias trabajadoras. El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (LCLAA por sus siglas en inglés) felicita a Rich, Arlen, Liz y a todos los nuevos miembros del Consejo Ejecutivo del AFL-CIO y a aquellos que han sido reelegidos,” declaró Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA. Rogelio “Roy” Flores, Vicepresidente Nacional de la Federación Americana de Trabajadores del Gobierno (AFGE) y Baldemar Velazquez, del Comité Organizador de los Trabajadores del Campo (FLOC por sus siglas en inglés) fueron unos de los Latinos elegidos para asumir un puesto en el Consejo Ejecutivo. “Celebramos esta elección y trabajaremos con el nuevo liderazgo para promover las prioridades para el movimiento laboral en los temas de salud, reforma laboral (con el Acta de Opción Libre para el Trabajador), la creación de trabajos “verdes” e inmigración.”

“Felicitamos al nuevo liderazgo por su visión y su promesa de crecer y revitalizar al movimiento laboral, dando énfasis a la importancia de los nuevos medios de comunicación y sitios de redes sociales para acercarse a los trabajadores jóvenes. No podemos promover la prosperidad para los trabajadores en el siglo 21 si no involucramos a los trabajadores jóvenes en nuestros esfuerzos. Para crecer y fortalecer el movimiento laboral, debemos adoptar tecnologías que nos permitan comunicarnos con la nueva generación de trabajadores sindicalizados y los que no tienen un sindicato. El nuevo liderazgo entiende esto muy bien. Rich, Arlene y Liz pueden contar con LCLAA como un aliado para crear un movimiento laboral más solido, amplio y diverso que luche por la prosperidad de todas las familias trabajadoras,” añadió Jason M. Leon, Director Ejecutivo de LCLAA.

Los latinos son el grupo más joven de la población en los Estados Unidos y están contribuyendo al crecimiento del movimiento laboral. Para continuar este crecimiento la educación de los trabajadores sobre los beneficios de un sindicato es clave para organizarlos y proveerles los recursos y herramientas necesarias que lleven a esta y a la próxima generación hacia la prosperidad. Estamos comprometidos a trabajar arduamente con el nuevo liderazgo para acercarnos a aquellos trabajadores que todavía no disfrutan de las ventajas de ser miembros de un sindicato“expresó Héctor E. Sánchez, Director de Política e Investigación de LCLAA.

El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL-CIO como a la Change to Win Federation. Visite nuestra página de internet: www.lclaa.org

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September 17, 2009 - LCLAA WELCOMES RICH, ARLENE AND LIZ TO AFL-CIO LEADERSHIP: For Immediate Release
September 17, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA WELCOMES RICH, ARLENE AND LIZ TO AFL-CIO LEADERSHIP
NEW LEADERSHIP COMMITS TO STRONGER AND MOVE DIVERSE LABOR MOVEMENT

Washington D.C. – The American Federation of Labor – Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) held its 26th annual constitutional convention from September 13th-17th in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The convention gathered over 1,000 delegates and 2,000 guests. Delegates voted for new officers, electing Richard Trumka to lead the AFL-CIO as its new President along with Arlene Holt-Baker as Executive Vice President and Liz Shuler as its Secretary-Treasurer. This was an historic election in which Liz Shuler became the first woman to hold the second highest post in the AFL-CIO leadership.

“Workers nationwide are facing tremendous challenges. The current economic reality highlights the importance of union membership to having quality jobs with family sustaining wages and benefits. Now more than ever, it is crucial for the labor movement to lead the way on all issues critical to working families. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) congratulates Rich, Arlene, Liz and all the newly elected and re-elected members of AFL-CIO Executive Council. We look forward to working with the new leadership to advance the major priorities for the labor movement including Health Care, the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA), Green Jobs and Immigration Reform,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“We praise the new leadership for their vision of the future and their pledge to grow and revitalize the labor movement, emphasizing the importance of new media and social networking tools to reach out to young workers. We cannot truly promote prosperity for working families in the 21st century if we do not engage young workers in our efforts. Growing and strengthening the labor movement means embracing technology to organize and communicate with the next generation of workers inside and outside of the unions and the new leadership understands this. Rich, Arlene and Liz can count on LCLAA as an ally in building a stronger, broader and more diverse labor movement that promotes prosperity for all working families,” added Jason M. Leon, LCLAA’s Executive Director.

“Latinos are the youngest population group in the United States and they are growing the labor movement. To continue this growth, it is crucial that we educate all workers about the benefits of unionization, organize them and give them the tools to lead the next generation to prosperity. We are committed to working with the new leadership to reach out to workers who do not yet have the advantage of union membership,” stated Hector E. Sanchez, LCLAA’s Director of Policy and Research.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation. Visit our website at www.lclaa.org

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September 2, 2009 - LA REALIDAD DEL OBRERO LATINO EN EL DlA DEL TRABAJADOR: Para Distribución Inmediata
2 de Septiembre 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

CELEBRANDO AL TRABAJADOR LATINO EN EL DĺA DEL TRABAJO

ENFRENTANDO MULTIPLES RETOS CON LA ESPERANZA DE UN FĺN A POLITICAS FALLIDAS

WASHINGTON, DC- En este Día del Trabajo, los trabajadores latinos y sus familias están a punto de ser testigos de grandes cambios, pero al mismo tiempo enfrentan los retos más graves del País. Los latinos afrontamos una de las más severas crisis hipotecarias en la historia de los Estados Unidos ya que los embargos, reposiciones y evicciones han alcanzado niveles record; los Latinos somos más propensos a ser lesionados y tenemos las tazas más altas de muertes en el trabajo, las cuales han aumentado un 76 por ciento de 1992 a el 2007. Actualmente, el 62 por ciento de todas las victimas de crímenes de odio son Latinos. En el nivel de desempleo, excedemos el nivel nacional por tres puntos porcentuales y somos menos propensos a tener acceso a un seguro medico que cualquier otro grupo en este país. Un extenso estudio “Leyes Violentadas, Trabajadores Desprotegidos” de trabajadores en Nueva York, Los Ángeles y Chicago destaca que los obreros latinos tienen el mayor nivel de violaciones al salario mínimo y horas extras comparado a cualquier otro grupo étnico.

La Federación Americana del Trabajo-Congreso de Organizaciones Industriales (AFL-CIO por sus siglas en inglés) dio a conocer una “Encuesta Naciones de Trabajadores Jóvenes” que resalta una degradación en la situación económica de trabajadores jóvenes de minorías. Este segmento de trabajadores lucha por lograr la independencia económica pero el 27 por ciento no gana lo suficiente para poder pagar sus deudas; El 50 por ciento no tiene plan de jubilación a través de su trabajo, mientras que el 32 por ciento no tiene seguro médico. Sin embargo, podemos sacar provecho de los tiempos difíciles. Los Latinos somos el grupo más joven de la población de EEUU y pronto seremos la nueva cara del movimiento laboral. Ahora más que nunca, afiliarse a un sindicato es clave para ganar sueldos justos. A través de los sindicatos, los trabajadores tienen oportunidades de actualizar sus habilidades para tener más responsabilidades y ser más competitivos en la fuerza laboral. Además, reciben muchos beneficios. Esta generación de trabajadores deben tener las herramientas necesarias para ser líderes de una generación próspera.

“Ya es hora. La nueva administración simpatiza con el movimiento laboral y la lucha diaria de millones de familias trabajadoras, impulsando políticas que fortalecerán la base social que nuestro país necesita urgentemente en tiempo de recesión. La comunidad latina espera ver los cambios que se nos han prometido,” declaró Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA.

El bienestar y la seguridad económica de las familias de este país depende de una reforma de nuestras leyes en el ámbito de salud, laboral, migratorio y ambiental. Si no se implementan políticas integras y humanas sobre todos estos temas permitiremos un ambiente de abuso y discriminación contra los trabajadores; les negaremos a nuestros niños, adultos y jubilados beneficios de salud y perpetuaremos la existencia de individuos de segunda clase que no existen para la justicia; además pondremos en riesgo nuestra salud y nuestra seguridad económica si no enfrentamos los peligros y oportunidades que el calentamiento global y el cambio climático representan para comunidades de escasos recursos y comunidades minoritarias crecientes.

El proyecto de ley de salud aprobada por el Congreso (H.R.3200), El proyecto de ley de opción libre para el trabajador (EFCA), y el proyecto de ley de energía limpia y seguridad (ACES), son 3 propuestas de ley que establecen una buena base para reestablecer la clase media, asegurar la salud de nuestras familias y proteger el derecho de los trabajadores a formar un sindicato en sus lugares de trabajo. Respecto a la reforma migratoria, LCLAA apoyará una propuesta de ley que sea justa y humana. Por ahora, LCLAA estará pendiente de todas estas propuestas y abogará por ellas para asegurar su aprobación durante este el congreso actual.

El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL-CIO como a la Change to Win Federation.

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September 3, 2009 - How Latino Workers Fare on Labor Day: For Immediate Release
September 3, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
631-456-1102

LABOR DAY AND THE LATINO WORKFORCE

FACING BIG CHALLENGES, BUT HOPEFUL FOR CHANGE IN FLAWED POLICIES

WASHINGTON, DC – This Labor Day, Latino working families are standing at the edge of change, but at the same time we are confronting some of the biggest challenges in the nation: We now face the biggest housing crisis in American history, with foreclosures, repossessions and evictions at historic levels. From 1992 to 2007, the number of fatalities in the workplace among Latino workers has increased by 76 percent. 62 percent of all hate crimes in the nation are now against Latinos. Our community is 3 points above the national average in unemployment and we also have the lowest access to insurance and health care. A study that came out this week, “Broken Laws, Unprotected Workers” points out violations of employment and labor laws in some major cities, and provides the most thorough examination of wage-law violations in a decade. The report’s findings highlight that Latino workers have the highest rates of minimum and overtime wage-law violations of any racial/ethnic group.

The AFL-CIO’s “National Survey of Young Workers” highlights a decline in the financial standing of young workers of all races as they struggle to achieve personal and financial independence, face fewer and less stable job opportunities, and are less likely to have health care. But in challenging times we can seize opportunity. Latinos are among the youngest population group in the United States and soon will be the new face of the labor movement. In the current economic reality, union membership is the key to earning a livable wage. It also could move many into jobs where they learn more specialized skills take on greater responsibilities and gain added benefits. Young workers in particular must be given the tools to lead the next generation to prosperity.

“The timing is right, we have a new administration that is friendly to the labor movement and sympathizes with the struggles of working families by pushing for policies that will help strengthen the basic social structure that our country desperately needs at this time of economic recession. The Latino community anticipates the changes we have been promised,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

The well-being and economic security of our nation’s working families depend on reforming our health care system, our federal labor laws, our immigration laws and our climate change and energy policies. Failure to enact comprehensive policies in all of these policy arenas will: enable a cycle of abuse and discrimination of our workers; deprive our children, adults and retirees of vital health benefits; perpetuate an underclass of people invisible to justice; and threaten our health and economic security if we turn our back on the implications of climate change and global warming for low-income, and emerging communities.

The America’s Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009 (H.R.3200), the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) and the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES) are key pieces of legislation that establish a prudent framework to restore the middle class, ensure the health of our families, and protect workers’ freedom to form unions. LCLAA awaits a just and humane immigration bill. Until then, LCLAA will follow these bills closely and advocate vigorously to secure their passage in the 111th Congress.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation. Visit us at www.lclaa.org

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September 2, 2009 - Obreros Latinos Enfrentan las Tazas ma¦üs Altas de Violaciones al Pago Adecuado: Para Distribución Inmediata
2 de Septiembre 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
631-456-1102

TRABAJADORES LATINOS E IMMIGRANTES ENFRENTAN MÁS VIOLACIONES

AL PAGO ADECUADO DE LOS SALARIOS MÍNIMOS Y HORAS EXTRAS DE TRABAJO

LAS LEYES FEDERALES TIENEN QUE SER APLICADAS PARA PROTEGER A TODOS LOS TRABAJADORES

Washington, DC - Un extenso estudio de trabajadores en Nueva York, Los Ángeles y Chicago investigo las violaciones a los salarios mínimos y al pago en horas extras de trabajo. El estudio resalta que hay una extensa violación a los salarios mínimos en la última década. La investigación destaca que los obreros latinos tienen el mayor nivel de violaciones al salario mínimo y horas extras comparado a cualquier otro grupo étnico. El Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latino-Americano (LCLAA) denuncia estas violaciones y pide al Departamento del Trabajo (DOL) que aplique las leyes laborales a todos los empleadores.

El estudio incluyo a 4,387 trabajadores en varias industrias con salario mínimo y se descubrió que los trabajadores tenían una perdida de 15 por ciento en el salario en general. Igualmente se descubrió que la raza, género y estatus migratorio juegan un papel importante para determinar los grupos que tienden a tener un mayor riesgo de violaciones laborales. Los trabajadores inmigrantes enfrentan la mayor violación del estándar legal de salarios mínimos a un nivel de 35.1 por ciento en comparación con el 10.1 por ciento de sus colegas blancos. Y esto es peor para las mujeres, las latinas han sido victimas de violación al salario mínimo en un 40 por ciento, en comparación con un 24 por ciento para todos los latinos. La incidencia mayor de estas violaciones ocurrió entre obreros indocumentados (37 por ciento) comparado al 25.7 por ciento de obreros documentados. El problema es aun más serio en las violaciones a pagar adecuadamente las horas extras de trabajo y se dan en un 80 por ciento de los inmigrantes (documentados e indocumentados) y en un 79 por ciento de los latinos.

Esta realidad no aplica solamente a las ciudades en las que se enfoco el estudio y con gran porcentaje de latinos: Nuevo York (27%), Chicago (26%) y Los Ángeles (47%). Es bien documentado que este tipo de violaciones se da por todo el país y podemos esperar que esos números sean aun más drásticos en áreas rurales. Es importante aplicar las leyes laborales por igual para poder unir a los obreros y poder negociar colectivamente sus derechos laborales.

“Los sindicatos tienen la habilidad de reinstalar un balance sano y justo al trabajo. La propuesta de ley EFCA (por sus siglas en inglés) es central para crear una legislación que mejorara las condiciones de las familias trabajadoras, “dijo Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA.

Bajo las condiciones actuales, las familias trabajadoras están luchando y una perdida del 15 por ciento de sus sueldos es un robo inaceptable. “Aunque este reporte resalta violaciones de la Ley Salarial en industrias que ofrecen salarios mínimos, las normas federales del trabajo deben ser impuestas para proteger a trabajadores en todos los sectores laborales para prevenir la explotación de los más vulnerables, como son los obreros inmigrantes,” agregó Jason M. León, Director Ejecutivo de LCLAA.

“Los inmigrantes documentados al igual que los indocumentados son mucho más propensos a ser victimas de violaciones al pago de horas extras, ya que el 80 por ciento de los inmigrantes encuestados reportaron haber sido afectados. Esta discrepancia recalca la importancia de impulsar una reforma migratoria justa y humana,” dijo Héctor E. Sánchez, el Director de Política e Investigación de LCLAA.

El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL-CIO como a la Change to Win Federation.

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September 2, 2009 - NYT article on Wage Violations: NYT

September 2, 2009

Low-Wage Workers Are Often Cheated, Study Says

By STEVEN GREENHOUSE

Low-wage workers are routinely denied proper overtime pay and are often paid less than the minimum wage, according to a new study based on a survey of workers in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago.

The study, the most comprehensive examination of wage-law violations in a decade, also found that 68 percent of the workers interviewed had experienced at least one pay-related violation in the previous work week.

“We were all surprised by the high prevalence rate,” said Ruth Milkman, one of the study’s authors and a sociology professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, and the City University of New York. The study, to be released on Wednesday, was financed by the Ford, Joyce, Haynes and Russell Sage Foundations.

In surveying 4,387 workers in various low-wage industries, including apparel manufacturing, child care and discount retailing, the researchers found that the typical worker had lost $51 the previous week through wage violations, out of average weekly earnings of $339. That translates into a 15 percent loss in pay.

The researchers said one of the most surprising findings was how successful low-wage employers were in pressuring workers not to file for workers’ compensation. Only 8 percent of those who suffered serious injuries on the job filed for compensation to pay for medical care and missed days at work stemming from those injuries.

“The conventional wisdom has been that to the extent there were violations, it was confined to a few rogue employers or to especially disadvantaged workers, like undocumented immigrants,” said Nik Theodore, an author of the study and a professor of urban planning and policy at the University of Illinois, Chicago. “What our study shows is that this is a widespread phenomenon across the low-wage labor market in the United States.”

According to the study, 39 percent of those surveyed were illegal immigrants, 31 percent legal immigrants and 30 percent native-born Americans.

The study found that 26 percent of the workers had been paid less than the minimum wage the week before being surveyed and that one in seven had worked off the clock the previous week. In addition, 76 percent of those who had worked overtime the week before were not paid their proper overtime, the researchers found.

The new study, “Broken Laws, Unprotected Workers,” was conducted in the first half of 2008, before the brunt of the recession hit. The median wage of the workers surveyed was $8.02 an hour - supervisors were not surveyed - with more than three-quarters of those interviewed earning less than $10 an hour. When the survey was conducted, the minimum wage was $7.15 in New York State, $7.50 in Illinois and $8 in California.

Labor Secretary Hilda L. Solis responded to the report with an e-mail statement, saying, “There is no excuse for the disregard of federal labor standards - especially those designed to protect the neediest among us.” Ms. Solis said she was in the process of hiring 250 more wage-and-hour investigators. “Today’s report clearly shows we still have a major task before us,” she said.

The study’s authors noted that many low-wage employers comply with wage and labor laws. The National Federation of Independent Business, which represents small-business owners, said it encouraged members “to stay in compliance with state and federal labor laws.”

But many small businesses say they are forced to violate wage laws to remain competitive.

The study found that women were far more likely to suffer minimum wage violations than men, with the highest prevalence among women who were illegal immigrants. Among American-born workers, African-Americans had a violation rate nearly triple that for whites.

“These practices are not just morally reprehensible, but they’re bad for the economy,” said Annette Bernhardt, an author of the study and policy co-director of the National Employment Law Project. “When unscrupulous employers break the law, they’re robbing families of money to put food on the table, they’re robbing communities of spending power and they’re robbing governments of vital tax revenues.”

When the Russell Sage Foundation announced a grant to help finance the survey, it said that low-wage workers were “hard to find” for interviews and that “government compliance surveys shy away from the difficult task of measuring workplace practices beyond the standard wage, benefits and hours questions.”

The report found that 57 percent of workers sampled had not received mandatory pay documents the previous week, which are intended to help make sure pay is legal and accurate. Of workers who receive tips, 12 percent said their employer had stolen some of the tips.

One in five workers reported having lodged a complaint about wages to their employer or trying to form a union in the previous year, and 43 percent of them said they had experienced some form of illegal retaliation, like firing or suspension, the study said.

In instances when workers’ compensation should have been used, the study found, one third of workers injured on the job paid the bills for treatment out of their own pocket and 22 percent used their health insurance. Workers’ compensation insurance paid medical expenses for only 6 percent of the injured workers surveyed, the researchers found.
September 2, 2009 - Latino Workers Face Higher Wage Violation Rates than U.S. born: For Immediate Release
September 2, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
631-456-1102

LATINO AND IMMIGRANT WORKERS FACE HIGHER WAGE VIOLATION RATES THAN U.S. BORN

FEDERAL LABOR STANDARDS MUST PROTECT ALL WORKERS

WASHINGTON, DC – A comprehensive study surveyed workers in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago to look at wage-law violations. The study provides the most thorough examination of wage-law violations in a decade. The report’s findings highlight that Latino workers have the highest rates of minimum and overtime wage-law violations of any racial/ethnic group. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) denounces these gross labor law violations and calls on the Department of Labor (DOL) to strengthen the enforcement of federal labor standards.

The study surveyed 4,387 workers in various low-wage industries and found that they experienced a 15 percent loss in pay. It also found that gender, nativity, race and ethnicity play a significant role in determining which groups of workers are at a higher risk of a violation. Immigrant Latino workers faced the highest minimum wage violation rates at 35.1 percent in comparison to 10.1 percent of their White counterparts. 40 percent of Latina workers were victims of minimum wage violations in comparison to 24 percent of Latino men. The highest incidence of these violations occurred among undocumented workers (37.6 percent) compared to 25.7 percent of documented workers.

This reality is not unique to New York (27%), Chicago (26%) and Los Angeles (47%), cities with a high percentage of Latinos. Wage-law violations are ubiquitous and they highlight the importance of strengthening the enforcement of federal labor standards as well as workers’ ability to form unions and bargain collectively. “Unions have the ability to reinstate a healthy balance and fairness to the workplace. The passage of the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) is central to restoring policies that will improve the living conditions of working families,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“Working families are struggling and a loss a loss of 15 percent of pay is an unacceptable theft. Although this study underscores wage violations in low-wage industries, federal labor standards must be vigorously enforced to protect workers in all industries and prevent the exploitation of particularly vulnerable ones, as are the immigrant workers,” stated Jason M. Leon, LCLAA’s Executive Director.

With an overtime violation rate of 80 percent among the workers surveyed, the findings illustrate that immigrants, documented and undocumented alike, are much more prone to wage violations. “These disparities highlight the imperative to move swiftly with immigration reform that guarantees labor rights for all workers,” stated Hector E. Sanchez, LCLAA’s Director of Policy and Research.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.

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Press Releases - August 2009

August 26, 2009 - LCLAA MOURNS THE LOSS OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY: For Immediate Release
August 26, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
631-456-1102

LCLAA MOURNS THE LOSS OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY

WASHINGTON, DC – The passing of Senator Edward Kennedy marks a great and monumental loss in our nation’s history of influential leaders. Kennedy, the last surviving brother of former President John F. Kennedy, was always at the forefront of history-altering movements. Well respected throughout Congress, he was committed to working with all sides of the political spectrum in order to achieve the greatest possible reform for the American public. Kennedy’s constant pursuit to forge a government committed to empowering the disadvantaged, and often- neglected communities has earned him a place of honor as not just a man of the people but of a man for the people.

The Latino community and workers in general continue to benefit from the Kennedy families’ a long history and contributions to advancement of both Latino rights and workers’ rights. The Kennedy’s contributions to the Latino community include Sen. Robert Kennedy’s solidarity with the Farm Workers in their fight to achieve equal rights in the 1960s, as well as Sen. Edward Kennedy’s efforts to seek common ground in Congress to achieve immigration reform while striving to keep humanity at the heart of the debate.

“The imprint left by Sen. Edward Kennedy on minority and human rights is undeniable and will be equally felt throughout the Latino community” states Milton Rosado, National President of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA).

Jason Leon, Executive Director of LCLAA added that “Sen. Kennedy was a man who forged a kinship with the often marginalized population of this nation, despite coming from a background affording him more privilege. This makes his life’s work that much more impressive placing him on a platform of social justice and reform that many leaders’ only dream of standing on.”

Hector E Sanchez, LCLAA’s Director of Policy and Research, shares the sentiment adding: “Sen. Edward Kennedy carried the torch for minority and human rights aggressively, his constant commitment for social justice is an example that must be followed by others in the Senate.”

A gallant and tireless leader in countless legislative battles, he will be remembered by the Latino community as a leader and public servant who unselfishly did the best he could, with all that he had. His life’s work and legacy inspires us all to do the same.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.

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Press Releases - July 2009

July 13, 2009 - LCLAA PIDE LA CONFIRMACIÓN DE SONIA SOTOMAYOR: Para difusión inmediata

13 julio 2009

Contacto: Andrea L. Delgado

202-637-5120

LCLAA PIDE LA CONFIRMACIÓN DE SONIA SOTOMAYOR A LA CORTE SUPREMA

HOY EMPIEZAN AUDIENCIAS HISTÓRICAS DE CONFIRMACIÓN PARA LA JUEZA SONIA SOTOMAYOR

WASHINGTON, DC – Hoy es el primer día de audiencias de confirmación para la nominación histórica de la Jueza Sonia Sotomayor a la Corte Suprema de los Estados Unidos. Una vez confirmada, la Juez Sonia Sotomayor sería la primera hispana y tercera mujer que serviría en la corte más alta de la nación. Sotomayor es una jueza distinguida y reconocida por su sagacidad y servicio público a través de su carrera. Desde 1998 ella ha servido en la Corte de Apelaciones de los Estados Unidos del Segundo Circuito. Se graduó summa cum laude de la Universidad de Princeton y fue editora de la Revista Legal de la Universidad de Yale, Sotomayor es una selección admirable para la corte más alta de la nación. El Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (LCLAA) aplaude la nominación histórica de la jueza Sonia Sotomayor y pide un proceso de confirmación justo y rápido.

LCLAA ha estado trabajando arduamente para conseguir apoyo para la confirmación de la Jueza Sotomayor. Junto con varios miembros de la Agenda Nacional de Liderazgo Hispano (NHLA por sus siglas en inglés), LCLAA ha visitado los miembros del Senado y del Comité Judicial para informarles y educarles sobre la Jueza Sotomayor y su capacidad, experiencia y el compromiso a la justicia que ella ha demostrado a través de su vida y carrera legal.

“LCLAA da la bienvenida a primera Jueza Hispana a la Corte Suprema. Esencialmente, una Latina en la corte más alta de la nación traería más diversidad de ideas y experiencia a nuestro sistema legal. Anticipamos un proceso de confirmación justo y rápido. La nación estará mirando y los Latinos a través de los Estados Unidos se juntaran para participar en fiestas en las cuales podrán observar las audiencias,” recalcó Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA.

La Jueza Sonia Sotomayor es más calificada que cualquiera actualmente sirviendo en la Corte Suprema de los Estados Unidos en el tiempo en que fueron nominados. Sus credenciales son bien reconocidas a través de las líneas partidistas. Ella ha sido nominada a puestos judiciales por ambos Presidentes Demócratas y Republicanos y ha sido confirmada por el Senado en dos ocasiones, recibiendo apoyo bipartidista. “A medida que los Senadores Demócratas y Republicanos empiezan a formar el debate sobre la nominación de Sotomayor, anticipamos que consideraran su carrera ilustre y como sus experiencias personales sin duda enriquecerán la perspectiva y las deliberaciones de la ley conforme es aplicada a toda la gente de este país,” dijo Jason León, el Director Ejecutivo de LCLAA.

“Una Latina capacitada en nuestra corte más alta dará diversidad a las deliberaciones judiciales, pero también traerá la perspectiva de un individuo que posee experiencia personal en los asuntos discutidos. Sotomayor entiende a las comunidades que históricamente han sido servidas inadecuadamente en el país. Como una mujer de origines humildes, ella ejemplifica los anhelos de la gente trabajadora que buscan servir a su país y vivir el Sueño Americano,” agregó Héctor E. Sánchez, Director de Política e Investigación de LCLAA.

El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL-CIO como a la Change to Win Federation.

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Press Releases - June 2009

June 17, 2009 - LCLAA RELEASES WHITE PAPER - REVIVING THE LATINO WORKFORCE: For Immediate Release
June 17, 2009

Contact: Lydia Gonzalez
202-637-6917 or
214-704-8383 cell

LCLAA RELEASES WHITE PAPER
REVIVING THE LATINO WORKFORCE: COMPLEX PROBLEMS DEMAND COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTIONS

Washington D.C. – The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) released a critical White Paper entitled “Reviving the Latino Workforce: Complex Problems Demand Comprehensive Solutions” examining the role that Latino workers can play in revitalizing the U.S. economy, along with how policy makers, political leader and law-makers can best support them.

This White Paper offers a set of critical arguments to inter-relate the imperative of achieving the passage of progressive legislation like the Employee Free Choice Act, immigration and national health care reform combined with the national priority of an economic stimulus process that addresses both the priorities and needs of Latino workers - native-born and immigrant, including the undocumented. Although politically daunting, the priorities are ultimately complementary and merit immediate attention by both Congress and the Administration.

“The economic recession has impacted the entire nation, but when combined with other socio-economic factors, the Latino community, African-American community and other low-income groups have reached a critical mass. To address the complex needs of Latinos and to better integrate our nation, the economic stimulus plan alone will not suffice,” stated Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director. “It is also important to engage in progressive policy reform in the areas of health care and immigration, and to target adult workforce retraining and unionization efforts such as the Employee Free Choice Act so as to better empower the community in its social, economic and political aspirations.”

“Reviving the Latino Workforce: Complex Problems Demand Comprehensive Solutions” is an effort to gain understanding of the impact that the current recession has had on the Latino community, in combination with other factors affecting the welfare, economic growth and political potential of this rapidly growing community. It offers a set of critical arguments to inter-relate the imperative of achieving the passage of progressive legislation with the national priority of an economic stimulus process that address the priorities and needs of Latino workers – whether native-born or immigrant, including the undocumented.

With an in-depth look of how even before the current recession, despite growing rates of productivity, working class people were not being adequately rewarded for their work. Wages were frozen; health care costs skyrocketed while access to health care benefits was reduced; and workplace violations went unchecked, a particularly troublesome trend for the Latino community because of the industrial sectors in which the overall workforce is concentrated (construction and meatpacking are two examples) and because its immigrant workforce is more vulnerable to employer abuses.

“LCLAA is committed to advancing the status of the Latino workforce and the Labor movement. When combined, the social and political force of the two can change the face of America as we know it,” said Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President. “Latino workers are a critical element to the revitalization of today’s U.S. economy. Labor is critical to the Latino community.”

The problems of unemployment are compounded by other social and economic realities. Latino and African-American communities are over-represented in the sub-prime loan pool and their communities are hardest hit by the mortgage crisis. For every $1 earned by a White household, Latino households earn just over 50 cents.

This White Paper offers various recommendations on how to enhance workers’ rights and improve working conditions for the youngest workforce in the U.S. - a median age of 25.8 years old. Latinos contribute significantly to the United States and are a vital part of the engine that drives its economy. The data are clear – the gap between rich and poor is widening, and certain communities—including Latinos— have been placed on the margins. If ever there was a time when private interests and social interests can be converged and harmful market forces can be corrected by public policy, this is it.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.

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Press Releases - May 2009

May 26, 2009 - LCLAA APPLAUDS HISTORIC NOMINATION OF FIRST HISPANIC TO U.S. SUPREME COURT: For Immediate Release
May 26, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA APPLAUDS HISTORIC NOMINATION OF FIRST HISPANIC TO U.S. SUPREME COURT
SONIA SOTOMAYOR BRINGS HIGHEST LEGAL QUALIFICATIONS TO THE NATION'S HIGHEST COURT

WASHINGTON, D.C. –The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) applauds President Obama’s nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court. Sonia Sotomayor is a distinguished judge, renowned for her acumen and public service throughout her career. Since 1998 she has served on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. A summa cum laude graduate of Princeton University and an editor of the Yale Law Journal, Sotomayor is a commendable choice for the nation’s highest court. President Barack Obama makes history with the selection of this exemplary judge who would be the first Hispanic and third woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court.

"Judge Sonia Sotomayor is more qualified than anybody currently serving on the U.S. Supreme Court at the time they were nominated. She brings a wealth of knowledge gained through her illustrious legal career and her life experiences. She will undoubtedly enrich the perspective and deliberations of the law as it applies to all people in this country. Once confirmed, Sotomayor will join Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Gainsburg, the only woman currently serving on the Supreme Court bench. With the departure of Supreme Court Justice David Souter, Sotomayor will also be the only Justice with trial judge experience. She is well-qualified and possesses exceptional credentials. We welcome her nomination.," stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA's National President.

“We embrace the nomination of Sonia Sotomayor to the highest court of the land. This nomination inspires hope in the Latino community and all people in this country who come from humble beginnings, aspire to serve this nation and live the American Dream. There is no question that Sotomayor will adhere to the principles that America's founding fathers fought hard to achieve and will apply them to the many questions and controversies that face our nation today,” stated Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA's Executive Director.

“A qualified Latina in our highest court will diversify judicial deliberations, bringing the perspective of an individual who possesses first hand experience on the issues faced not only by ordinary Americans but also under-served individuals and communities. This nomination increases public confidence in our legal system by reinforcing our Constitution’s axiom of “equal justice under the law,” added Hector E. Sanchez, LCLAA's Director of Policy and Research.

Sotomayor's credentials are widely recognized across party lines. She has been nominated to judicial posts by both Democratic and Republican presidents. She has been confirmed by the Senate on two separate occasions, receiving bipartisan support. Before becoming an appeals judge, Sotomayor served on the federal district bench in New York, a position to which she was appointed by Republican President George H.W. Bush. Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Chairman of the Judiciary Committee which will hold Sotomayor's confirmation hearings, highlighted Sotomayor's qualifications to fill the Supreme Court vacancy and commended President Obama for reaching across the aisle to consult on this nomination. LCLAA will work arduously to ensure that Judge Sotomayor receives an expeditious confirmation.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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May 22, 2009 - LCLAA WELCOMES AN ENERGY BILL THAT WORKS FOR WORKING FAMILIES: For Immediate Release
May 22, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-508-6919

LCLAA WELCOMES AN ENERGY BILL THAT WORKS FOR WORKING FAMILIES
HOUSE PANEL PASSES AMENDMENT FOR GREEN JOBS TO PAY DAVIS-BACON PREVAILING WAGES

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the nation prepares to take steps to transition to a clean energy economy, the House Energy and Commerce Committee presided by Congressman Henry Waxman debated on the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 (HR 2454). The time for clean energy is now. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) welcomes this crucial dialogue and commends the passage of the Sutton amendment which will ensure that Davis-Bacon Act prevailing wages apply to all federally assisted construction projects. Latino workers constitute a significant part of the construction sector and LCLAA applauds Chairman Waxman for his leadership on this bill and commends Congresswoman Betty Sutton [OH-13] for standing up for workers so that green jobs in a new and clean energy economy will be good jobs for all.

“Global warming and climate change are among the most significant challenges of our time and we can meet them with the political will to launch a clean energy future, investing in innovation, job growth and environmental stewardship. The American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 (ACES) provides a prudent framework to work towards this purpose,” stated Milton Rosado, National LCLAA President. “Workers deserve good jobs that pay family-sustaining wages. Passage of the Sutton amendment sends a clear message that the House Energy and Commerce Committee stands not just for green jobs, but good jobs for America’s workers.”

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and more recently the EPA have recognized that the concentration of carbon dioxide and other harmful greenhouse gases in our atmosphere is too high and pose risks for the health and wellbeing of communities nationwide. Our national security, as well as the social and economic wellbeing of our nation depends on bold action from our leaders in government to tackle global warming and climate change by reducing our consumption of fossil fuels.

“In this recession, we applaud the members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee for their efforts to both meet global warming and climate challenges with a vision towards economic opportunity by investing in the development of clean energy sources that will create well-paid ‘green jobs’ for America’s workers. The challenge will be to ensure Latinos are an integral part of the emerging clean energy economy and trained to compete for the jobs that will be created. For this aim, adequate funding must be made available for apprenticeship programs that will actively recruit Latinos, as well as other people of color, low-income workers, women, at-risk youth and the unemployed. Provisions that will fund the Green Jobs Act will bring us closer to this goal,” added Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director and Chair of the National Latino Coalition on Climate Change (NLCCC).

LCLAA welcomes dialogue that will stimulate energy efficiency and the deployment of clean energy technology in our country. The ACES energy bill also includes key provisions to protect consumers from energy price hikes and to improve energy efficiency in low-income rural and urban communities while aiding industry in the transition to a clean energy economy. Although we are encouraged by these provisions, LCLAA urges our members of Congress to enact a sensible and inclusive clean energy policy that does not neglect the negative implications for the jobs of America’s workers and the economy. Conducting a full economic assessment of this bill prior to its enactment would be a valuable asset to the deliberations.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA, is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premiere national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and the Change to Win Federation. Visit us at www.lclaa.org
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May 19, 2009 - LCLAA APPLAUDS CHC EFFORTS TO INCLUDE LATINOS IN EMERGING GREEN ECONOMY: For Immediate Release
May 19, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-508-6919

LCLAA APPLAUDS CHC EFFORTS TO INCLUDE LATINOS IN EMERGING GREEN ECONOMY

ACCESS TO FEDERAL FUNDS IS KEY FOR LATINO WORKERS AND HISPANIC SERVING INSTITUTIONS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This evening, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) will discuss how the Latino community can help create the new clean energy economy. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) applauds Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez and all members of the CHC for their leadership and timely response to an issue that will affect the economic advancement of Latinos throughout the country, and the ability of Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) to facilitate access to key opportunities in the emerging green jobs sector.

“The funds approved for the Green Jobs Act and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) seek to address many of the challenges faced by the Latino community and the nation as a whole. In the allocation of these funds, our leaders at all levels of government must work aggressively to ensure that low-income communities and communities of color can access the programs and job opportunities these funds are meant to create. This is an unprecedented investment in our nation and the human capital that drives it forward. If Latino workers are not able to access job training to prepare for careers in the emerging energy efficiency and renewable energy sector, their economic security will be in jeopardy as they miss a great opportunity to advance in a clean energy economy,” added Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“If Latino workers and the community based organizations that provide them services are unable to access critical funding for health care, retraining, at-risk-youth apprentice programs, and core infrastructure re-development funds in areas like high-tech and “green jobs” among others, the growing Latino community risks being left behind in this green jobs movement,” stated Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director. “Access to green job training programs will be crucial to the development of the Latino workforce since many of these jobs will also be union jobs. Jobs that protect workers from unjust termination, pay higher wages and provide benefits like health care coverage and pensions. We applaud the Congressional Hispanic Caucus for taking steps to ensure Latinos and organizations that serve our community are connected and engaged in the national dialogue on energy and green jobs.”

To ensure Latinos are an integral part of the national dialogue on climate change and energy policy, Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus cofounded the National Latino Coalition on Climate Change (NLCCC). Along with our partner organizations, the NLCCC has been holding regional forums throughout the country to inform Latinos about the challenges and opportunities that global warming and climate change pose for our community. Raising awareness about what we can do to protect ourselves and our environment and prepare for the transition to an environmentally sustainable economy.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA, is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premiere national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and the Change to Win Federation. Visit us at www.lclaa.org
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May 4, 2009 - NATIONAL LATINO LEADERS DEMAND APOLOGY FROM REP. JOHN BOEHNER: For Immediate Release
May 4, 2009

Contact: Andrea Liliana Delgado 202-508-6919
Lydia Gonzalez 214-704-8383

NATIONAL LATINO LEADERS DEMAND APOLOGY FROM REP. JOHN BOEHNER
FOR OFFENSIVE “DO YOU FEEL SAFER?" VIDEO

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The National Hispanic Leadership Agenda (NHLA) – a non-partisan national association of the nation's most prominent Latino organizations from throughout the United States and Puerto Rico, - is outraged at the disrespect Congressmen Boehner and Hoekstra demonstrated to the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) and President Barack Obama in the “Do You Feel Safer? video. The offensive video displays images of Hispanic Congressional leaders and Obama as threats to USA national security.

NHLA condemns the appalling video and calls on both Congressman Boehner and Congressman Hoekstra to: apologize to members of the CHC, President Obama; to immediately remove the video from the website; to agree to an educational meeting on the CHC and its membership; and to agree never to engage in these shameful practices which offend the Latino community in the United States and tarnishes the image of our leaders in Congress.

“The NHLA repudiates this attack on the image of our leaders in Congress who work arduously to advance the social, political and economic well-being of Latinos throughout the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. At a time when the country is undergoing the most serious economic crisis since the ‘Great Depression’ and two wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, we need our leaders to call for unity rather than incite divisiveness and baseless fear,” stated Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, Executive Director of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) and NHLA Chair.

Historically, Latinos in the United States have served honorably in the Armed Services, defending our nation on the front lines. Most notably, in World War II, when an estimated 500,000 Latinos served the United States and over 7500 received major military decorations for their valor.

“We call on Minority Leader Boehner to exemplify true leadership by apologizing to the members of the CHC as well as the Latinos who are part of the fiber of this country, contribute to its economy, and serve honorably to protect this nation from harm’s way in the Armed Forces. Congressman Boehner should shift his rhetoric away from inciting fear to initiating an open and honest dialogue on the issues that are essential to the nation’s future and its security,” added Alma Morales Riojas, President of MANA and NHLA Secretary Treasurer.

Established in 1991, the National Hispanic Leadership Agenda (NHLA) is a nonpartisan association of national Latino organizations and distinguished leaders. Its mission calls for unity among Latinos across the country to provide the Hispanic community with greater visibility and a stronger influence in the nation’s affairs by establishing policy priorities that address and raise public awareness of the major issues affecting the Latino community and the nation as a whole.
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May 1, 2009 - LCLAA CALLS ON CONGRESS AND THE ADMINISTRATION TO SUPPORT LONG-OVERDUE HUMANE IMMIGRATION REFORM: For Immediate Release
May 1, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA CALLS ON CONGRESS AND THE ADMINISTRATION TO
SUPPORT LONG-OVERDUE HUMANE IMMIGRATION REFORM

Washington D.C. – May 1, 2009 is a national day of action in which thousands of immigrants and activists throughout the nation will march, united for reform of a broken immigration system and justice for families that have been torn-apart. This May Day, the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) reaffirms its commitment to humane immigration reform to allow millions of working families to come out of the shadows to improve their quality of life; allow young and ambitious immigrants to pursue higher education and decrease the susceptibility of undocumented workers to exploitation and discrimination in their workplaces and their communities.

On April 30, the Senate Judiciary Committee took steps to re-open dialogue on comprehensive immigration reform, a contentious issue that has divided Democrats and Republicans alike. The Committee presided by Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) brought together several witnesses, many of which sought to underline the imperative of fixing a flawed immigration system in favor of a plan that will legalize the undocumented and revamp temporary foreign worker visa programs to reflect labor market needs.

“Echoing the statement of Eliseo Medina, the Executive Vice-president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), LCLAA favors comprehensive immigration reform that will help secure and control our borders, legalize the current undocumented population, provide immigrant workers with a safe and effective worker authorization mechanism, revamp temporary worker programs and create a commission to accurately anticipate and adjust future immigration flows based on labor market needs, rather than relying on arbitrarily established immigration quotas. These are bold steps in the right direction,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President

“Initiatives to curb undocumented immigration must look beyond the domestic perspective to take into account the root causes of immigration beyond our borders, and recognize the role that U.S. international economic policies play in exacerbating income inequalities and accelerating mass displacement of people south of our borders. The same policies that are displacing workers here in the U.S. have dislocated workers in Mexico and other countries – limiting their economic prospects in their homeland and forcing them to seek better opportunities in our country,” added Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director. “The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) has been a culprit in accelerating the flows of undocumented migration to the United States since its implementation in 1994. Any dialogue on immigration reform that ignores the connection between unjust international economic policies and their impact on the displacement of workers and immigration will fail to be fully comprehensive, and will not be effective in the long term.”

“The failed immigration reform debate has exposed Latinos, citizens and immigrants alike, to degradation, humiliation, abuses, bigotry, murders and exploitation. It is crucial that Secretary Janet Napolitano and our members of Congress balance immigration enforcement policy with a humane approach, shifting away from enforcement-only approaches that target working families and instead focus the nation’s resources in the pursuit of real threats to the nation. Immigrant communities cannot wait any longer for immigration reform. Today, immigrants and sympathizers will remind everyone that they have not forgotten the President’s promise of comprehensive immigration reform,” stated Hector E. Sanchez, Director or Policy and Research at LCLAA.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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Press Release - April 2009

April 28, 2009 - EL REPORTE “MUERTE EN EL TRABAJO” DESTACA TASAS DE ACCIDENTES, MUERTES LABORALES LATINAS: Para Difusión Inmediata
28 de abril de 2009

Contacto: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

EL REPORTE “MUERTE EN EL TRABAJO” DESTACA LAS ALTAS TASAS DE ACCIDENTES Y MUERTES LABORALES ENTRE LOS LATINOS
LCLAA Hace Un Llamado a un Mayor Compromiso Para Proteger la Seguridad y el Bienestar de Nuestros Trabajadores

Washington, D.C. - El 28 de abril la Nación espera realizar una serie de eventos en conmemoración al Día del Trabajador, día en que conmemoramos a los trabajadores que han sufrido accidentes laborales o que han fallecido en el trabajo. De igual forma, este día representa el aniversario de la Administración de la Salud y Seguridad Ocupacional (OSHA por sus siglas en inglés). A la luz de estos eventos, la AFL-CIO lanzó la 18ª edición del reporte “Muerte en el Trabajo- un Perfil Nacional de Estado a Estado sobre la Seguridad y Salud Laboral en los Estados Unidos”. Entre otras cosas, dicho reporte realiza un desglose por raza, del número de fatalidades ocurridas en los centros de trabajo desde 1992 al 2007, durante este periodo la tasa de mortandad en el trabajo se incrementó en un 76%. El Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latino-Americano (LCLAA) se encuentra consternado debido al alto número de accidentes letales que los trabajadores Latinos sufren, 937 muertes para ser exactos, esto quiere decir que la tasa de mortalidad debido a los accidentes laborales se encuentra en un 21 porciento sobre el promedio nacional, siendo los latinos los más afectados en comparación a otras razas. De las 937 vidas que hemos perdido, 634 de ellos eran inmigrantes, esto demuestra la situación tan vulnerable en la que se encuentran los trabajadores inmigrantes.

Las cifras presentadas por el reporte de la AFL-CIO exponen una clara pero lúgubre realidad de la seguridad en el ámbito laboral de los Estados Unidos. En el año 2007, 5,657 trabajadores murieron y otros 10,959 sufrieron accidentes laborales o enfermedades relacionadas con el trabajo diariamente. Debemos notar que las estadísticas no incluyen las muertes por enfermedades laborales, las cuales se estima que oscilan entre los 50,000 y 60,000 anualmente. El sector de la construcción es el más afectado por los accidentes laborales, reportando 1,204 muertes, lo cual conforma una importante parte de la economía y la fuerza laboral, ya que uno de cada tres trabajadores es Latino. El reporte también señala que los estados con mayor número de fatalidades laborales, específicamente de Latinos, son Texas (211), California (179) y Florida (111). A pesar de que el número de muertes, accidentes y enfermedades laborales reportadas ha disminuido ligeramente para todos los trabajadores, algunos estudios reflejan que, en realidad, la tasa es dos o tres veces mayor.

“Las Familias Latinas Trabajadoras enfrentan múltiples desafíos y preocupaciones en esta economía, altas tasas de desempleo, una gran falta de cobertura en la salud, embargos hipotecarios, y una limitada gama de derechos y protecciones en el centro de trabajo. Es atroz, que encima de todo, los trabajadores tengan que preocuparse por estar en peligro debido a la falta de medidas apropiadas de seguridad en sus centros de trabajo. Todos los trabajadores merecen trabajar en un medio seguro” señaló Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA.

“Las cifras son atroces e inexcusables. ¿Hasta cuando toleraremos esta realidad?¿Cuántas vidas más se deben perder antes de que nos demos cuenta de que mantener el status quo significa poner en peligro la vida de nuestros trabajadores?” Mencionó la Dra. Gabriela Lemus, Directora Ejecutiva de LCLAA. “Con 937 muertes de trabajadores, los trabajadores Latinos tienen una tasa de mortandad 21% mayor que los demás trabajadores de todo Estados Unidos. ¡Ya basta, Es suficiente! Tenemos la esperanza de que el Congreso y el gobierno tomen las riendas sobre este asunto que ha sido olvidado por demasiado tiempo. El Congreso debe aumentar el presupuesto para OSHA y aprobar el proyecto de ley para la Protección de los Trabajadores de América (Protecting America’s Workers Act), para fortalecer y modernizar el OSHAct, la ley federal que resguarda la salud y seguridad de los trabajadores en este país. Se deben incrementar las penas para las compañías que alevosa y repetidamente violentan las disposiciones de seguridad laboral. También se debe brindar una mayor protección para los trabajadores voceros que reportan los riesgos laborales.”

A pesar de que hubo un ligero descenso el año pasado, la cantidad de lesiones entre los Latinos y el alto número de muertes registradas entre los trabajadores inmigrantes, ponen al descubierto la cruel realidad de estos trabajadores; son explotados diariamente, se exponen a situaciones peligrosas e insalubres en algunas de las actividades e industrias más peligrosas sin las medidas de seguridad adecuadas y en la mayoría de los casos sin siquiera portar protección.

“En este Día de Conmemoración a los Trabajadores, recordamos las vidas de aquellos que perdimos mientras trabajaban, y a aquellos que resultaron heridos o enfermaron. Los trabajadores necesitan una solida seguridad y protección laboral y una efectiva aplicación de ley de OSHA. Necesitamos que la Acta de Opción Libre para el Trabajador (EFCA) sea aprobada para que los trabajadores gocen de la libertad de unirse a un sindicato y fortalezcan su voz en sus centros de trabajo. Necesitamos cobertura médica para todos ya que es una desgracia que el País cuente con 47 millones de personas no asegurados. De igual manera necesitamos una reforma migratoria, porque el hecho de permitir que las personas indocumentadas vivan como ciudadanos de segunda clase ha creado una vergonzosa crisis en cuanto a los derechos humanos y los derechos civiles, permitiendo que los patrones exploten a los trabajadores y les otorguen bajas remuneraciones por su trabajo. Muchas vidas están en juego. Necesitamos un cambio urgente”, así lo expresó Héctor E. Sánchez, Director de Política e Investigación de LCLAA.

El Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL-CIO como a la Change to Win Federation.

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April 28, 2009 - “DEATH ON THE JOB” REPORT HIGHLIGHTS SIGNIFICANT LATINO INJURY AND FATALITY RATES IN THE WORKPLACE: For Immediate Release
April 28, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

“DEATH ON THE JOB” REPORT HIGHLIGHTS SIGNIFICANT LATINO INJURY AND FATALITY RATES
IN THE WORKPLACE

LCLAA CALLS FOR STRONGER PROTECTIONS OF THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF OUR WORKERS

WASHINGTON, D.C. - On April 28th, the nation prepares to hold events around the country to commemorate Workers’ Memorial Day, a day honoring those killed and injured on the job. This day also marks the anniversary of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). In light of these forthcoming events, the AFL-CIO has released the 18th edition of Death on the Job: The Toll of Neglect- A National and State-by-State Profile of Worker Safety and Health in the United States. Among many things, the report illustrates a breakdown by race of the total number of workplace fatalities from 1992 to 2007, a period during which the number of fatalities among Latino workers has increased by 76 percent. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) is alarmed at the high number of fatal injuries Latino workers have suffered on the job (937 deaths), placing the Latino death rate on the job at 21 percentage points above the national average – higher than any other population group. Of the 937 lives lost, an alarming 634 were immigrants, reinforcing the vulnerable status of our immigrant workforce.

The numbers presented by the AFL-CIO report paint a clear but grim picture of worker safety in the United States. In 2007, 5,657 workers died on the job and every day, 10,959 workers were either injured or became ill from various occupations. It must be noted that the statistics in this report do not include deaths from occupational diseases, which are estimated to be between 50,000 to 60,000 annually. The construction sector had the largest number of fatal work injuries (1,204 deaths), a segment of the economy where one in three workers is Latino. The report also highlights that the top three states in fatalities of Latino workers were Texas (211), California (179) and Florida (111). Although the total number of reported job fatalities, injuries and illnesses has slightly declined for all workers, some studies project that the actual human toll is two to three times greater.

“Latino working families are facing multiple challenges and preoccupations in this economy, high rates of unemployment, lack of health care coverage, foreclosure, and limited rights and protections in the workplace. It is outrageous that workers should also have to worry about being in harm’s way when they are trying to make a living, due to inadequate job safety protections. All workers deserve to labor in a safe environment,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“Where do we draw the line? The numbers are inexcusable and outrageous. How many more lives must be claimed before we realize that maintaining the status quo means continuing to endanger the safety and health of workers,” stated Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director. “With 937 worker deaths, Latino workers have a fatality rate 21 percent higher than all U.S. workers. Enough is enough. We are looking to Congress and the administration to take the lead on this issue that has been neglected for far too long. Congress should increase OSHA funding and pass the Protecting America’s Workers Act, to strengthen and modernize the Occupational Safety and Health Act, our nation’s law that ensures the health and safety of American workers. Penalties for companies that willfully and repeatedly violate safety regulations should also be increased and workers who blow the whistle on safety hazards should be better protected.”

Although a small decline from last year, the number of injuries among Latinos and the high number of deaths among immigrant workers highlights the cruel reality these workers are subjected to: daily exposure to exploitation, hazardous and substandard working conditions in some of the most dangerous occupations and industries along with inadequate protections or none at all.

“On this Workers’ Memorial Day, we remember the lives of those who were lost on the job, and those who were wounded or became ill. Workers need strong workplace safety and health protections, as well as better OSHA enforcement. We need to pass the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) so that workers have the ability to choose a union and have a voice in the workplace. We need health care coverage for all because 47 million uninsured is a disgrace to this country and its hardworking people. And, we need immigration reform, because allowing the undocumented to live as second class citizens is causing a civil and human rights crisis allowing employers to depress wages and exploit workers. Change is needed now,” stated Hector E. Sanchez Director of Policy and Research for LCLAA.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA, is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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April 13, 2009 - EL PRESIDENTE BARACK OBAMA RESALTA SU COMPROMISO A LA REFORMA MIGRATORIA: Para difusión inmediata
13 de abril de 2009

Contactar: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

EL PRESIDENTE BARACK OBAMA RESALTA SU COMPROMISO A LA REFORMA MIGRATORIA

Washington, D.C. - El periódico ‘The New York Times’ reiteró que la administración del Presidente Barack Obama está comprometida a emprender la reforma migratoria pronto. La Presidenta de la cámara baja y el Presidente del Senado han señalado que existe apoyo en el Congreso. Con una promesa de cambio, millones de entusiastas votantes latinos apresuradamente se dirigieron hacia los módulos de votación con la finalidad de apoyar a un líder en quien ellos confían brindará una reforma migratoria más justa y humana. El Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latino-Americano (LCLAA) agradece el refuerzo brindado por el Presidente hacia su compromiso de tomar acción en el asunto de la reforma migratoria, un tema que es crucial en el presente año.

Políticas de mano dura, utilizadas por la administración pasada a través de la Agencia de Inmigración y Aduanas (ICE por sus siglas en inglés), asediaba a los Latinos y a las comunidades inmigrantes mediante redadas llevadas a cabo en sus hogares y trabajos. “Las deportaciones masivas se convirtieron en prácticas comunes, pero no debemos permitir que esta clase de ataques se sigan perpetrando en nuestras comunidades y en nuestros centros de trabajo. Valoramos la voluntad del Presidente Barack Obama de dirigir ICE hacia prácticas más justas y humanas. La Agencia, a lo largo de los años, ha desencadenado una cacería de brujas en contra de las comunidades Latinas e Inmigrantes, sembrando el pánico entre los ciudadanos latinos, sin tomar en cuenta su estatus legal” así lo declaró Milton Rosado, presidente nacional del LCLAA.

“Se ha infringido un gran daño a nuestras comunidades. El saldo humano que un fallido sistema de inmigración ha dejado puede ser apreciado por la cantidad de niños que faltan a sus escuelas; la cantidad de familias que buscan refugio en centros religiosos; el trauma que las familias enfrentan al saber que no volverán a ver a sus seres queridos o la incertidumbre que experimentan al no tener información sobre su paradero; y el impacto que tienen las redadas en las economías locales. ¡Las redadas en los hogares y en los centros de trabajo deben parar ya!” Recalca la Doctora Gabriela D. Lemus, Directora Ejecutiva del LCLAA. “La lucha por la reformas migratoria es el tema de los derechos civiles de nuestra época y es vital generar una conciencia nacional sobre la necesidad de actuar en este importante asunto.”

Hector E. Sanchez, Director de Investigación y Política del LCLAA agrega, “la inseguridad económica ha agravado la vulnerabilidad en las comunidades inmigrantes, ellos se han convertido en los chivos expiatorios para los problemas de la nación, una visión que ha sido repetidamente aplicada por los que quieren inyectar miedo en el país conservadoras autoridades anti-inmigrantes. A pesar de una infundada retorica anti-inmigrante que inunda los medios, el tema de la inmigración no puede ser ignorado. El voto de los Latinos en las elecciones pasadas demostraron que políticas de mano dura sin reforma migratoria son insostenibles y que nosotros debemos arreglar el fracasado sistema de inmigración y movilizarnos hacia una reforma migratoria más humana y justa.”

Los legisladores y la Nación deben reconocer que los inmigrantes indocumentados no pueden ser detenidos mediante un sistema enfocado solamente en políticas de mano dura. Necesitamos una solución afable que ataque el problema desde su raíz, haciendo una conexión entre la globalización, las políticas internacionales de comercio y su impacto subsecuente en la inmigración. El LCLAA hace un llamado para que los miembros del Congreso participen audazmente y manifiesten su voluntad para apoyar una reforma migratoria más justa que prevea la posibilidad de abrir el dialogo en este tan necesitado cambio en la política migratoria del País.

El Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo de electores potenciales que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL‐CIO como a la federación Change to Win.
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April 13, 2009 - LCLAA APPLAUDS PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA'S COMMITMENT TO ADDRESS IMMIGRATION REFORM: For Immediate Release
April 13, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA APPLAUDS PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA’S COMMITMENT TO ADDRESS IMMIGRATION REFORM

WASHINGTON, D.C. - As the New York Times noted today, there is a reiteration that the Obama administration is committed to undertake immigration reform soon. There is also support from the House and the Senate as recent statement from Speaker Pelosi and Senator Reid signaled. With a promise of change, millions of Latino voters were energized and rushed to the polls to support a leader who they believe will answer their calls for just and humane immigration reform. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) welcomes the President’s reassurance that he is committed to taking action on the crucial issue of immigration reform this year.

The previous administration’s enforcement-only approach to immigration policy besieged Latino and immigrant communities with home and work-site raids. “Mass deportations became the standard and we cannot allow these attacks on our communities, workplaces and businesses to continue. We appreciate President Barack Obama’s willingness to push the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) towards more just and humane practices. The agency has, over the years, conducted a witch hunt against the Latino and immigrant communities, terrorizing citizens, documented and undocumented Latinos alike,” declared Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“Great harm has been inflicted on our communities. The human toll of a broken immigration system can be measured by the children missing from their classrooms; the families seeking refuge in places of worship; the trauma of families that will not see their loved ones come home or have knowledge about where they have been sent; and the resulting impact of raids on local economies. Home and worksite raids must stop now!” added Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director. “The fight for immigration reform is the civil rights issue of our time and is important to raise national awareness about the urgent need to take action on this crucial issue.”

Hector E. Sanchez, Director of Policy and Research at LCLAA added, “Widespread economic insecurity has exacerbated the vulnerability of the immigrant community to pose as scapegoats for the nation’s troubles, a view that has been repeatedly enforced by the fear-mongering of conservative, anti-immigrant pundits. Despite unsubstantiated anti-immigrant rhetoric inundating the media networks, the issue of immigration cannot take a backseat. The Latino vote in the past elections demonstrated that positions advocating for enforcement-only policies are untenable and that we must fix the broken immigration system and move towards humane and just immigration reform.”

The nation as a whole must recognize that undocumented immigration cannot be stopped with an enforcement-only approach. We need a comprehensive solution that tackles the problem at its roots, making the connection between globalization, our international trade policies, and their subsequent impact on immigration. LCLAA calls for bold action from the White House and Members of Congress to demonstrate a political will that supports comprehensive immigration reform and prevents anti-immigrant sentiment from driving the discourse on this much needed change of the nation’s immigration policy. We applaud President Obama for his commitment to address immigration reform.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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April 3, 2009 - HOUSE AND SENATE APPROVE PRESIDENT'S BUDGET: For Immediate Release
April 3, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

HOUSE AND SENATE APPROVE PRESIDENT’S BUDGET-
LCLAA ANTICIPATES NEW POLICIES WILL USHER IN ECONOMIC RECOVERY FOR LATINO WORKERS

Washington D.C. - The March jobs report released today by the Department of Labor’s (DOL) Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), highlights a loss of 663,000 jobs and a rise in the national unemployment rate from 8.1 to 8.5 percent. the continued job losses reflect the urgency for Congress to pass comprehensive economic measures that will help workers throughout the country get through this crisis and usher in widely shared economic prosperity for all working families. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) believes the House and Senate’s approval of President Obama’s budget will start moving the country in the direction towards a healthy, economic and environmentally sustainable future.

As the unemployment rates continue to climb Latinos workers are among the hardest hit, experiencing high levels of unemployment as compared to the national average. Latinos currently hold an unemployment rate of 11.4 percent, almost 3 percent over the national average, exceeding the usual 2 point difference over the past year. In March, the number of people that have been unemployed for 27 weeks or more reached 3.2 million while 423,000 workers took part time jobs for economic reasons. The latter are sometimes referred to as “involuntary part-time workers” and they total 9 million in the country, reflecting the financial need working people are being exposed to.

“The current economic reality highlights the imperative of empowering our workforce through the creation of good-paying, sustainable jobs that cannot be outsourced and will help revitalize local economies nationwide. It is important to not only revitalize our economy but to take comprehensive measures that will promote sustainable growth. President Barack Obama’s budget takes into consideration all the essential components necessary to get our economy back on track: reforming our health care system, tackling global climate change by investing in the development of a green economy, and funding for our education system which is crucial for the development of a competitive workforce,” said Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President. “All these issues are of vital importance to the social and economic advancement of Latino working families, and the nation as a whole.”

“A policy prescription for widespread prosperity and long-term economic health is one that essentially creates good jobs, provides access to affordable and quality healthcare for all, invests in the education of our kids, develops clean energy, prepares our workforce for the challenges of the future and gives them the freedom to form strong unions that will fight for workers’ rights, living wages, and pensions for our retirees,” added Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, Executive Director of the LCLAA. “As a nation we are facing complex problems that warrant comprehensive solutions. Reforming our health care, energy and immigration systems and passing progressive legislation like the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) will take a holistic approach to economic recovery. The task is overwhelming but lawmakers on both sides of the aisle must come together for our nation to move towards a healthy, economic and environmentally sustainable future.”

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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Press Releases - March 2009

March 31, 2009 - LCLAA CONMEMORA EL LEGADO DE CÉSAR E. CHÁVEZ, UN GRAN LÍDER DE LOS DERECHOS CIVILES: Para difusión inmediata
31 de Marzo del 2009

Contactar: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA CONMEMORA EL LEGADO DE CÉSAR E. CHÁVEZ, UN GRAN LÍDER DE LOS DERECHOS CIVILES
Su Legado Refleja la Importancia de ‘EFCA’ para Tener Mayor Justicia Social y Económica en los Estados Unidos

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Como una organización que aboga por el avance social, económico y político de las familias trabajadoras Latinas, LCLAA celebra este día, 31 de Marzo, el natalicio de César E. Chávez. Hoy es un día de reflexión en el que recordamos la vida de un hombre que hizo un llamado a la humanidad para transformar este país en un lugar más justo en la lucha por la justicia social y económica de nuestras comunidades y de nuestros lugares de trabajo. Hasta el día de su muerte, César luchó arduamente por valores e ideales fundamentales que todavía están presentes en nuestra comunidad y que sirven como protección para los trabajadores, así como mejores condiciones laborales, sueldos sustentables y otros beneficios cruciales, principios que son reflejados en el Acta de Opción Libre para el Trabajador (EFCA por sus siglas en inglés).

César E. Chávez fue un hombre humilde que nació en Yuma, Arizona el 31 de Marzo del 1927. Desde niño vivió la injusticia en carne propia siendo victima de discriminación en su propia escuela y testigo del maltrato y la explotación cuando laboraba junto a los trabajadores agrícolas en los campos de California. En este día tomemos un momento para reflexionar sobre la vida de este ejemplar hombre que pidió que nos uniéramos en solidaridad con la gente que se encuentra es una situación más vulnerable e indefensa. Chávez participó en boicots, piquetes, huelgas, y otras acciones pacíficas que revelan el poder que tiene la gente cuando se une en la lucha por la justicia social.

César E. Chávez es un símbolo de lucha para la comunidad Latina y para los activistas por los derechos civiles. Su dedicación a la justicia social es un ejemplo a seguir para la humanidad. Sus contribuciones a esta Nación nos recuerdan que la lucha por la justicia para los trabajadores no ha llegado a su fin. César E. Chávez fue el fundador y presidente del sindicato de Trabajadores Agrícolas Unidos (UFW por sus siglas en inglés). César conocía muy bien la importancia de los sindicatos, la protección que les brindan a los trabajadores, el aseguramiento de sueldos más justos, el establecimiento de mejores condiciones laborales y otros beneficios fundamentales. Hasta el día de su muerte, César luchó por el derecho de los trabajadores agrícolas para negociar colectivamente sus condiciones de trabajo, y bajo su liderazgo, los trabajadores se enfrentaron a las corporaciones agropecuarias y lograron su primer convenio colectivo a través de su sindicato,” así lo afirmó Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA.

“La realidad económica establece la necesidad de prevenir que las familias trabajadoras vivan en pobreza, por eso es crucial el facilitar el derecho a formar un sindicato a través del Acta de Opción Libre para el Trabajador (EFCA por sus siglas en inglés). El Presidente Barack Obama apoya a EFCA y cuando este proyecto de ley sea aprobado por el Congreso y el Senado y ratificado por nuestro Presidente, la ley abrirá a los trabajadores un camino hacia el ascenso social y promoverá los principios de justicia social y económica a favor de aquellos a quien César E. Chávez dedicó toda su vida,” recalcó la Dra. Gabriela D. Lemus, directora ejecutiva del LCLAA.

“Nuestra organización siempre recibe quejas de trabajadores latinos que tratan de formar sindicatos. Nos cuentan sobre la intimidación y el acoso que enfrentan día a día por querer ser miembros de un sindicato. Los hacen blancos de medidas disciplinarias injustas y suspensiones sin paga,” recalcó Héctor E. Sánchez, Director de Investigación y Política en LCLAA. “Los trabajadores no deben tener miedo de perder su trabajo porque están luchando por lugares de trabajo más seguros y sueldos sustentables que les permitan proveer una buena calidad de vida para sus seres queridos. Al conmemorar la vida y el trabajo de César E. Chávez, debemos contemplar lo que podemos hacer para asegurar la justicia social y económica en nuestros lugares de trabajo y en nuestras comunidades.”

La celebración del natalicio de César E. Chávez nos recuerda los valores por los cuales tenemos que luchar para promover la justicia social, ‘EFCA’ proveerá al trabajador Latino una valiosa oportunidad para fortalecer su voz en el lugar de trabajo y negociar colectivamente por mejoras en la seguridad en el trabajo, en las condiciones laborales, y sueldos sustentables al igual que otros beneficios fundamentales.

El Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo de electores potenciales que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL-CIO como a la federación Change to Win.
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March 31, 2009 - LCLAA COMMEMORATES LIFE AND ACHIEVEMENT OF CIVIL RIGHTS LEADER CÉSAR E. CHÁVEZ: For Immediate Release
March 31, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA COMMEMORATES LIFE AND ACHIEVEMENT OF CIVIL RIGHTS LEADER CÉSAR E. CHÁVEZ
HIS LEGACY REFLECTS THE IMPORTANCE OF EFCA TO ADVANCE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC JUSTICE

WASHINGTON, D.C. - As a national advocate for the social, economic and political advancement of Latino working families, LCLAA is proud to honor César E. Chávez on the day of his birth, March 31st. Today we should reflect on the life of this man who appealed to the humanity of every individual and called on us to make this nation a more just place by fighting for social and economic justice in our workplaces and our communities. The basic values and ideas for which César fought arduously for almost a generation ago, worker protections, improved working conditions, living wages and other crucial benefits, are still contemporary issues and the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) is a clear reflection of that.

César E. Chávez was a man of humble beginnings, born in Yuma, Arizona on March 31st, 1927, he learned about injustice early in his life, experiencing discrimination at school, and witnessing the mistreatment and exploitation of California farmworkers as he toiled besides them in the sun since he was a child. Today we should take the time to reflect on the life of this commendable man, who called on all people to join in solidarity with the weak and the helpless by participating in boycotts, pickets and strikes, all non-violent acts that taught us about the power of people when they mobilize under the banner of social justice.

“César E. Chávez is an icon for the Latino and civil rights community. His struggle for the empowerment of the poor and the disenfranchised is a model for humanity and his contributions to this nation must remind us that the struggle for justice for workers is not over. César E. Chávez, the late founder and president of the United Farm Workers (UFW) understood the importance of unions to protect workers and ensure fair wages, better working conditions and other crucial benefits. Almost a generation ago, he fought for the unequivocal right of agricultural workers to collective bargaining, and under his leadership, farm workers challenged agribusiness and won the first union contracts,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“The economic times highlight the imperative to protect working families from going into poverty and making it easier for our workers to organize through the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA). President Barack Obama supports EFCA and when this bill passes in the House and the Senate and is signed by our President, it will provide workers with a tool for social mobility and will ultimately, promote the principles of social and economic justice that César E. Chávez devoted his life to,” added Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, Executive Director of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA).

“At LCLAA, we are constantly hearing from Latino organizers about the intimidation and harassment they deal with on a daily basis because they want a union. They are unfairly targeted, subjected to unjust disciplinary actions and suspensions without pay,” stated Hector E. Sanchez, Director of Policy and Research at LCLAA. “Workers should not have to fear termination because they want safer workplaces and living wages that allow them to maintain and provide a decent standard of living for their loved ones. As we commemorate the exemplary life and work of César E. Chávez, we should think about what we can do to achieve social and economic justice in our workplaces and our communities.”

The celebration César E. Chávez’s birthday is a good reminder of what values we need to fight for to promote social justice, EFCA is a reflection of those values. Despite the many challenges facing Latino workers in this economy, we believe that EFCA would provide Latino workers with a vital opportunity to strengthen their voice in the workplace and bargain collectively for better worker protections, working conditions, living wages and other crucial benefits.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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March 27, 2009 - LCLAA APPLAUDS HOUSE AND SENATE MEMBERS FOR REINTRODUCTION OF DREAM ACT-: For Immediate Release
March 27, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA APPLAUDS HOUSE AND SENATE MEMBERS FOR REINTRODUCTION OF DREAM ACT-
LET IMMIGRANT YOUTH LIVE THE AMERICAN DREAM!

WASHINGTON D.C. - The DREAM Act (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act) was introduced in the Senate by Senators Richard Durbin (D-IL), Richard Lugar (R-IN), Russell Feingold (D-WI), Edward Kennedy (D-MA), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Joe Lieberman (I- CT), Mel Martinez (R-FL), and Harry Reid (D-NV). Representatives Howard Berman (D-CA), Joseph Cao (R-LA), John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI), Lincoln Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Devin Nunez (R-CA), Jared Polis (D-CO), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) and Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA) did the same in the House of Representatives. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) applauds our lawmakers for making strides to fix America’s broken immigration system by offering promising youth the opportunity to come out of the shadows to serve our nation well as educated professionals and honorable individuals.

There are over 65,000 undocumented students that graduate from high school every year. Many of these youth came to the United States as children and have lived here for most of their lives. A moment that should be a stepping stone in their human development hits a roadblock when they are denied the opportunity to fully contribute to society because their legal status and limited financial resources prevent them from pursuing their dream of improving themselves and achieving college education. The DREAM Act would grant immigrant youth temporary legal status while they attend college or serve in the Armed Forces. These exemplary youth would eventually be eligible for permanent residency and citizenship if they keep a clean record, graduate from college or serve honorably in the Armed Forces.

“Passage of the DREAM Act is not only good for the Latino community, but essential to this nation’s future. These students are the future of the U.S. economy. We must recognize the value they can provide to our nation by giving them the opportunity to give back to their communities and to the country that has invested in them since their childhood. It is fruitless to nurture them and foster principles of good citizenship through primary and secondary education and then halt their professional and intellectual growth by denying access to higher education,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“Our communities and our nation as a whole can only benefit from ambitious youth that genuinely aspire to better themselves and the society they live in by serving as well-educated professionals and honorable individuals in the Armed Forces. These youth were brought to this country as children, they grew up here, and this is the land they call home. By depriving these young people of education and work opportunities, our society is wasting the investment we have already made in their talent and potential through primary and secondary education. Recognizing the current condition our economy is in, the DREAM Act is not only good immigration policy but also common-sense economic policy so that they can be productive,” stated Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director.

The DREAM Act would bring the nation closer to fixing its broken immigration system. LCLAA applauds the efforts of the members of House and Senate for reintroducing this bill that is crucial to the economic advancement of immigrant youth and the country as a whole. LCLAA urges the 111th Congress to support passage of the DREAM Act and show these young people what America is all about, a land of opportunity in which success depends on merit, not on race, place of birth or economic privilege.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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March 23, 2009 - Health Care Equality Project to Launch, Amplify Obama’s Call For Equality: Media Advisory
March 23, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
(202) 637-5120

Health Care Equality Project to Launch, Amplify Obama’s Call For Equality

Leading Labor Groups, Community Organizations, Health Advocates, Civil Rights Groups, Social Justice Advocates, and Faith Networks Join Together to Announce Major New Campaign

Washington D.C. - The HealthCare Equality Project, a unique coalition of major equality and social justice advocacy groups, labor unions, community organizations, civil rights and women’s groups, doctors, nurses, healthcare workers, and activists will launch their national campaign to fight for healthcare equality in America. This unprecedented platform will serve to mobilize and nationally coordinate the effort to include healthcare equality in the national reform movement. It’s a single project that will combine the forces of the partners to have a greater and strategic impact on the healthcare debate.

The coalition will hold its kickoff event on Tuesday, March 24 at 3:00 p.m. (EST) at All Souls Unitarian Church in Columbia Heights. The kickoff will allow the coalition to rally activists, outline the campaign, and unveil its strategy to demand that healthcare reform works for everyone, which includes addressing healthcare disparities that exist beyond insurance coverage. The coalition will be joined by members of the Congressional Black Caucus.

The campaign’s coalition partners include SEIU, Gamaliel, LCLAA, LULAC, ACORN, La Clínica del Pueblo, Center for Community Change, Northwest Federation of Community Organizations, URU the Right to Be, Partnership to Fight Chronic Diseases, National Hispanic Medical Association, National Puerto Rican Coalition, Hispanic Federation, and Latinos for National Health Insurance.

WHO: Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA), Congresswoman Donna Christensen (Chair, Congressional Black Caucus, Healthcare Brain Trust), Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, (D-D.C.) Warren Jones, M.D. (Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease), Crystal Emory (Producer and Director “The Deadliest Disease in America”), Elizabeth Figueroa (Riverside Church) Pastor Arelis Figueroa (St John Lutheran Church) and Jaime Contreras (SEIU 32BJ).

WHAT: Launch of the Health Care Equality Project national campaign.
Hosted by La Clínica del Pueblo.
Food and refreshments will be served.

WHERE: All Souls Unitarian Church 1500 Harvard St. NW Washington DC 20009

WHEN: Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 3:00p.m.

WHY: To call attention to healthcare disparities, rally activists and communities, and unite our voices in
order to advocate for a reformed healthcare system that will truly serve everyone.

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The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
March 20, 2009 - LCLAA WELCOMES PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA’S COMMITMENT TO ADDRESS IMMIGRATION REFORM: For Immediate Release
March 20, 2009

Contact: Andrea L. Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA WELCOMES PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA’S COMMITMENT TO ADDRESS IMMIGRATION REFORM
PRESIDENT REASSURES LATINO MEMBERS OF CONGRESS AND THE LATINO COMMUNITY THAT HE WILL WORK ON REFORM AGENDA THIS YEAR

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) met with President Barack Obama to discuss their concerns rooted in our broken immigration system and the plight of Latino families nationwide. With a promise of change, millions of Latino voters were energized and rushed to the polls to support a leader who they believe will answer their calls for just and humane immigration reform. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) welcomes the President’s reassurance that he is committed to taking action on the crucial issue of immigration reform this year.

The previous administration’s enforcement-only approach to immigration policy besieged Latino and immigrant communities with home and work-site raids. “Mass deportations became the standard and we cannot allow these attacks on our communities, workplaces and businesses to continue. We appreciate President Barack Obama’s willingness to push the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) towards more just and humane practices. The agency has, over the years, conducted a witch hunt against the Latino and immigrant communities, terrorizing citizens, documented and undocumented Latinos alike,” declared Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“Great harm has been inflicted on our communities. The human toll of a broken immigration system can be measured by the children missing from their classrooms; the families seeking refuge in places of worship; the trauma of families that will not see their loved ones come home or have knowledge about where they have been sent; and the resulting impact of raids on local economies. Home and worksite raids must stop now!” added Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director. “Echoing the message of CHC Chair - Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez - the fight for immigration reform is the civil rights issue of our time and we commend Congressman Luis Gutierrez for his mobilization efforts to raise national awareness about the urgent need to take action on this crucial issue.”

Hector E. Sanchez, Director of Policy and Research at LCLAA added, “Widespread economic insecurity has exacerbated the vulnerability of the immigrant community to pose as scapegoats for the nation’s troubles, a view that has been repeatedly enforced by the fear-mongering of conservative, anti-immigrant pundits. Despite unsubstantiated anti-immigrant rhetoric inundating the media networks, the issue of immigration cannot take a backseat. The Latino vote in the past elections demonstrated that positions advocating for enforcement-only policies are untenable and that we must fix the broken immigration system and move towards humane and just immigration reform.”

Lawmakers and the nation as a whole must recognize that undocumented immigration cannot be stopped with an enforcement-only approach. We need a comprehensive solution that tackles the problem at its roots, making the connection between globalization, our international trade policies, and their subsequent impact on immigration. LCLAA calls for bold action on the part of Members of Congress, to demonstrate a political will that supports comprehensive immigration reform and prevents anti-immigrant sentiment from driving the discourse on this much needed change of the nation’s immigration policy.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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March 10, 2009 - LCLAA APPLAUDS CONGRESS EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT: For Immediate Release
March 10, 2009

Contact: Andrea Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA APPLAUDS CONGRESS FOR INTRODUCTION OF THE EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT (EFCA)
EFCA WILL HELP RESTORE PROSPERITY TO LATINO WORKING FAMILIES

WASHINGTON, D.C. â€“ The Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) was introduced in the House and Senate this afternoon. EFCA is important because it gives workers additional protections to bargain collectively and join a union.Â The times we are facing highlight the need for legislation that promotes social mobility for working families. EFCA is a good example of such policies. Latinos have much to gain through union membership since it will strengthen their voice in the workplace and benefit entire families through better wages and benefits like health insurance and pensions.Â The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) applauds Congress for demonstrating the will to move forward with legislation important to Americaâ€™s working families.Â

â€œLatinos are an emerging population and their economic security is crucial to the advancement of the U.S. economy.Â EFCA would bring hope to millions of workers trying to organize in the workplace.Â Union membership means higher wages, better working conditions, health care coverage and pensions, all crucial elements that build economic security for millions of working families throughout the country,â€ stated Milton Rosado, LCLAAâ€™s National President.

A recent report highlighted that workers that favor unions have been fired in a quarter of union organizing campaigns.Â â€œAlong with new job opportunities for workers, we need to ensure that they not only have good and safe jobs, but also jobs in which they can bargain collectively for a better future for themselves and their families without the fear of intimidation and reprisals from their employer,â€ added Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAAâ€™s Executive Director.Â â€œThe Latino community should wholeheartedly get behind the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA). In 2008, workers represented by unions earned a median weekly salary of $886.00 compared to non-unionized workers who had median weekly earnings amounting to $691.00.â€

In order to level the playing field, workers need the freedom to organize without restraints.Â EFCA levels the playing field for workers by ensuring a more democratic decision-making process that allows employees decide â€“ not the corporation â€“ whether to form a union in their workplace through a majority sign up or an election.

Latino working families need policy changes that will alleviate the struggles they are confronting in this economy. The Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) introduced today is a good example of what is needed and that is why its passage is crucial.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement.Â LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico.Â LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is Americaâ€™s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families.Â LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities.Â LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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Press Releases - February 2009

February 27, 2009 - LCLAA WELCOMES DHS’ RECONSIDERATION OF WORK-SITE ENFORCEMENT POLICIES: For Immediate Release
February 27, 2009

Contact: Andrea Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA WELCOMES DHS’ RECONSIDERATION OF WORK-SITE ENFORCEMENT POLICIES
SECRETARY NAPOLITANO BRINGS OPTIMISM TO DEMAND FOR HUMANE ENFORCEMENT OF IMMIGRATION LAW

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) was distraught at the recent work-site raid executed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Bellingham, Washington, the first work-site raid to occur under President Barack Obama’s administration. Although the incident was a great disappointment to the Latino community and immigrant rights activists, LCLAA welcomes the response of the new Secretary of Homeland Security in ordering a full review of the Bellingham raid. LCLAA is optimistic about the new tone set by Secretary Janet Napolitano and hopes the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will allocate its resources to protect the nation without terrorizing working fathers and mothers, and separating them from their children.

“We are glad Secretary Napolitano will look into what has ultimately been a witch hunt against the Latino and immigrant community. Great harm has been inflicted on our communities, and the human toll of the immigration raids can only begin to be measured in the missing kids in our classrooms, the children and families seeking refuge in church pews, the trauma in the children that will not see their parents come home, and the local economies impacted by a loss of patrons and the wealth they helped create,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“Since the failed debate on Comprehensive Immigration Reform, the immigrant community has been besieged by home and work-site raids, and time and again we cautioned that enforcement-only policies were not only bad immigration policy but also a bad economic move, when the country is experiencing an economic recession and a deepening housing crisis. Mass deportations were popular in the last administration but we must not let this attack on our communities, workplaces and businesses become the standard. We hope the action by Secretary Napolitano reflects President Barack Obama’s commitment to just and humane immigration reform.” stated LCLAA’s Executive Director, Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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February 25, 2009 - LCLAA APPLAUDS CONFIRMATION OF HILDA SOLIS AS SECRETARY OF LABOR: For Immediate Release
February 25, 2009

Contact: Andrea Delgado 202-508-6919
Lydia González 202-508-6917

LCLAA APPLAUDS CONFIRMATION OF HILDA SOLIS AS SECRETARY OF LABOR
Solis Will Serve Our Nation Well as President Barack Obama’s Labor Secretary

WASHINGTON, D.C. – By a vote of 80 in favor and 17 against, the Senate cleared the nomination of Hilda Solis for the Secretary of Labor post in President Barack Obama’s Cabinet. As the nation faces great economic turmoil, the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) is delighted that Hilda Solis can get to work for America’s working people.

“As Latinos in the labor movement, we are thrilled to have a woman of Hilda Solis’ caliber heading the Department of Labor (DOL). She has consistently stood with Latino working families and all workers in this nation on the issues that matter the most. We are proud to have a great woman and the first Latina representing America’s diverse workforce,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

“We are glad Hilda Solis will finally assume her role as the new leader of the Department of Labor (DOL). The task ahead of the DOL is enormous, but Hilda Solis is a pragmatic leader that understands the multiple challenges facing workers in this economy, as well as the needs of Latino and immigrant communities in this country,” added Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director. “The DOL and the nation have gained an individual with a demonstrated commitment to protect America’s workforce. Solis knows that reshaping our workforce and revitalizing our industry is essential to the future sustainability of our economy, and she is ready to help prepare them for new and better jobs, while ensuring the safety of our workplaces. ”

“Many workers throughout the country, documented and undocumented alike, are vulnerable to exploitation and abuse without enforceable labor laws and regulations. We trust that under Solis’ leadership, worker protections will be strengthened for all workers, regardless of their legal status. We look forward to working closely with her in the coming years,” concluded LCLAA National President Milton Rosado.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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Press Releases - January 2009

January 29, 2009 - LATINOS CONTRIBUTE TO GREATEST GROWTH IN UNION MEMBERSHIP IN OVER 25 YEARS: For Immediate Release
January 29, 2009

Contact: Andrea Delgado
202-637-5120

LATINOS CONTRIBUTE TO GREATEST GROWTH IN UNION MEMBERSHIP IN OVER 25 YEARS
120,000 LATINOS ENLARGE UNION ROLLS IN 2008

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that between 2007 and 2008, the percentage of unionized workforce in the United Stated rose from 12.1 percent to 12.4 percent, becoming the second consecutive year of growth for union rolls. Close to 30 percent of the growth is attributed to Latinos who added 120,000 members to the labor movement. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) is delighted that Latino workers contributed to the greatest growth in union membership in over 25 years.

The report highlights that most of the growth was driven by the public sector, Latinos and Western states. The membership rate for Latinos rose to 10.6 percent from 9.8 percent in 2007. The total growth in union membership was 428,000, bringing the number of unionized workers to 16.1 million. Prior to 2007, union membership has either declined or stagnated. There is great potential for Latinos to grow and strengthen the labor movement since they are fastest growing segment of the U.S. workforce. Latinos are also the youngest with a median age of 25.8 years, more than 10 years younger than median age for the U.S. population at 36.7 years.

“We believe in the empowerment, job security and many other benefits that come from unionization, this is why these are great news for advocates of the Latino community, especially in these times when Latinos have been hit hard by the economic recession. There are great benefits for workers that choose to join a union including living wages, health care coverage, pension plans and greater job security since union workers are protected by laws and contracts against wrongful terminations. We are glad thousands of Latino workers will join millions of other union families and get to experience how meaningful being a union member is for them and their families” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President.

In 2008, workers represented by unions earned a median weekly salary of $886 while non-unionized workers had a median weekly earnings amounting to $691. “In this economy, every dollar matters and $195 dollars can go a long way for working families that are struggling to provide a decent standard of living for their loved ones and invest in their children’s future,” added Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director. “Unions will play a crucial role in helping Latino working families get through the difficult economic times we are facing and they will serve as stewards of prosperity in an economy that works for all working families and not just corporations and the wealthy.”

LCLAA believes it is imperative for this Congress to work to eliminate impediments to unionization so that workers and their families can enjoy the many benefits unions can offer them. The Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) which passed the House of Representatives in 2007 but was filibustered in the Senate would make it easier for workers to join unions without reprisals or intimidation from their employers; it would also facilitate union certification by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) if a majority of employees sign an authorization card certifying their desire to be represented by a union.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA, is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premiere national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation. Visit us at www.lclaa.org
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January 26, 2009 - LCLAA APLAUDE TRIUNFO DE LOS DERECHOS CIVILES SOBRE LA DISCRIMINACIÓN SALARIAL: Para difusión inmediata
26 de enero de 2009

Contactar: Andrea Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA APLAUDE TRIUNFO DE LOS DERECHOS CIVILES SOBRE LA DISCRIMINACIÓN SALARIAL
EL SENADO APROBÓ PROYECTO DE LEY PARA LA IGUALDAD SALARIAL

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Por un voto de 61 a favor y 36 en contra, el Senado aprobó el proyecto de ley de Lilly Ledbetter para la Igualdad Salarial, el cual permitirá que un trabajador pueda tener más tiempo para demandar a su empleador si ha sido victima de discriminación salarial. El Presidente Barack Obama ha apoyado este proyecto de ley y se anticipa que lo firmará para convertirlo en ley. El Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (LCLAA por sus siglas en ingles) está comprometido a luchar por la igualdad salarial y nos da mucho gusto que el Senado haya aprobado este proyecto de ley.

Lilly Ledbetter demandó a la compañía Goodyear Tire and Rubber después de descubrir que le habían pagado menos que sus colegas hombres y sus aumentos salariales fueron más pequeños por más de 19 años de trabajar con la compañía. Después de varios años de litigación la Corte Suprema declaró que su reclamo no era válido, porque de acuerdo a los jueces ella no emitió su reclamo a la Comisión sobre la Igualdad de Oportunidades de Empleo (EEOC por sus siglas en ingles) en los primeros 180 días después de recibir un aumento salarial discriminatorio. El proyecto de ley, aprobado por la cámara baja y ahora por el Senado, revierte la decisión fallida de la Corte Suprema al establecer que cada pago discriminatorio es considerado un nuevo caso de discriminación de pago, en violación del Título VII de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964.

“Esta es una gran victoria para los derechos civiles y para los defensores de los trabajadores. Esta acción por la cámara baja y el Senado nos demuestra que el nuevo Congreso esta comprometido con la igualdad y la justicia para todos los trabajadores sin importar su sexo, raza, religión, ó país de origen. LCLAA celebra la decisión del nuevo Congreso de proteger a las familias trabajadoras ante la discriminación salarial por parte de sus empleadores,” añadió Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA.

“Esto sucede en medio de una recesión económica, y para millones de familias trabajadoras a las cuales apenas les rinde sus salarios. Por esta razón, cada dólar es necesario. No importa cuan pequeña sea la discriminación salarial, este tipo de discriminación tiene consecuencias dañinas a corto y largo plazo, no solamente en el salario que los trabajadores ganan a lo largo de sus vidas pero también en los beneficios que recibirán de sus pensiones y Seguro Social cuando se jubilen. Prevenir la discriminación salarial es crucial para la estabilidad económica de nuestros jubilados, para que puedan disfrutar del resto de su vida, viviendo dignamente y no en pobreza,” agregó la Dra. Gabriela D. Lemus, Directora Ejecutiva de LCLAA.

La Dra. Lemus añadió, “Este proyecto de ley restablece la habilidad de un trabajador de defenderse en contra de la discriminación salarial y reafirma que dicho acto no ocurrirá impune. Las victimas de discriminación salarial merecen su día en la corte de justicia y este proyecto de ley previene que la discriminación salarial ocurra al hacer que los empleadores tomen responsabilidad por sus acciones. LCLAA anticipa que el Presidente firmara este proyecto de ley que defiende los derechos civiles y laborales de cada trabajador en este país.”

El Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo de electores potenciales que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL‐CIO como a la federación Change to Win.
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January 26, 2009 - LCLAA URGES REMOVAL OF ANTI-WORKER PROVISION IN STIMULUS BILL: For Immediate Release
January 26, 2009

Contact: Andrea Delgado
202-637-5120

LCLAA URGES REMOVAL OF ANTI-WORKER PROVISION IN STIMULUS BILL
E-VERIFY WILL BE HARMFUL TO MILLIONS OF WORKERS AND THE ECONOMY

WASHINGTON, D.C. - As the stimulus bill (the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009) was discussed in the House Appropriations Committee, an amendment was included to require all businesses as well as other public and private entities that receive money from the stimulus package to use the Basic Pilot E-Verify program. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) is strongly opposed to the inclusion of E-verify in the stimulus package and urges Congress to strip this harmful provision from the bill. In the middle of an economic recession, E-verify will place an undue and disruptive burden on workers, employers and the economy.

E-verify is a program run jointly by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). SSA has testified that 10 percent of the 240 million W-2s it receives annually do not match the names and Social Security numbers in its records; the Inspector General of the SSA has estimated that 70 percent of the discrepancies in the SSA database pertain to native-born U.S. citizens and noted that the implementation of E-verify will place an enormous workload on an already overwhelmed SSA, that as of 2008 had a backlog of 752,000 on disability rulings.
“Expanding a burdensome and ineffective program within the economic stimulus package is by no means an effective way to curtail the economic recession we are in. This is misguided economic policy that will overburden an already compressed industry and workforce,” stated Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director. “We cannot be obtuse and neglect to consider the impact E-verify will have on U.S. citizens and the economy. The E-verify system is flawed and will be harmful to the labor force because it fails to provide precautionary safeguards to prevent American workers from wrongful terminations because of incorrect information.”

“If the intent is to ‘weed-out’ undocumented workers from the workforce, it is troublesome that the means to achieve this end would be through the use of the error-ridden SSA records. The threat of these letters to native and U.S. citizen workers is imminent and we are concerned about the possible discrimination of foreign workers through misuse of this program,” stated Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President. “We are dealing with widespread economic insecurity and E-verify can result in Tentative Non Confirmations (TNC) for millions of workers, subjecting them to much stress and worry as they will fear termination if DHS and SSA agencies fail to clear up erroneous TNCs expediently. Workers are already struggling to find jobs and the idea of implementing E-verify goes against the principle of an economic stimulus package. This is why we urge our Congressional leaders to strip this harmful provision from the stimulus bill,” added Rosado.

The debate on what is needed to stimulate our economy must not neglect the negative implications for the jobs of U.S. citizens and the economy. LCLAA will remain in opposition to any employment verification program that mandates the use of a system that has not been proven to be fully accurate and cost-effective.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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January 26, 2009 - LCLAA APPLAUDS CIVIL RIGHTS VICTORY ON PAY DISCRIMINATION-: For Immediate Release
January 26, 2009

Contact: Andrea Delgado

202-637-5120

LCLAA APPLAUDS CIVIL RIGHTS VICTORY ON PAY DISCRIMINATION-
SENATE APPROVES LEDBETTER FAIR PAY ACT OF 2009

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate voted 61-36 in favor of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, a bill that will allow workers more time to file a suit against their employers if they have been a victim of pay discrimination. President Barack Obama supported the bill while he was a Senator and it is expected that it will be signed into law. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) is deeply committed to equal pay for equal work and we are delighted at the Senate approval of this significant bill.

Lilly Ledbetter brought litigation against Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. after discovering that she had been paid less than her male counterparts and received smaller raises throughout her 19 year career with the company. After years of litigation, the Supreme Court ruled her claims invalid because according to the judges, she did not file a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 180 days of receiving a discriminatory raise. The bill passed by both the House and now the Senate overturns the misguided Supreme Court decision by establishing that each discriminatory paycheck is to be considered a new case of discrimination in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President declared, “This is a great victory for civil rights and labor advocates. This action by both the House of Representatives and the Senate demonstrates the new Congress’ commitment to equality and fairness for all workers, regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, creed, or country of origin. LCLAA welcomes the decision of the 111th Congress to protect working families nationwide from discriminatory pay practices on the part of their employer.”

“In the middle of an economic recession millions of working families are struggling to stay afloat and every dollar counts. No matter how small, pay discrimination has damaging short-term and long-term consequences not only on the wages that workers earn throughout their lifetime, but also to the benefits they will receive in their pensions and their Social Security benefits when they retire. Preventing pay discrimination is crucial for the future economic stability of retirees, so they can live out their years with dignity,” stated Dr. Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director.

Dr. Lemus added, “This bill restores a worker’s ability to stand up to wage discrimination and reaffirms that such an act will not be allowed to occur with impunity. Victims of pay discrimination deserve their day in court and this bill will prevent future violations by holding employers accountable. LCLAA looks forward to the President signing this landmark bill which upholds the civil and labor rights of every worker in this nation.”

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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January 9, 2009 - LCLAA PIDE INCLUSIÓN JUSTA DE LOS LATINOS EN LA RECUPERACIÓN DE LA ECONOMÍA: Para difusión inmediata
9 de Enero del 2009

Contactar: Andrea Delgado 202-637-5120
Lydia González 202-508-6917

LCLAA PIDE INCLUSIÓN JUSTA DE LOS LATINOS EN LA RECUPERACIÓN DE LA ECONOMÍA
ESTÍMULO ECONÓMICO DEBE ASEGURAR QUE LOS LATINOS SE BENEFICIEN DE OPORTUNIDADES CREADAS

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Mientras legisladores del nuevo Congreso consideran planes para estimular la economía y crear oportunidades de trabajo, el Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (LCLAA por sus siglas en ingles) anticipa que cualquier plan legislativo para promover la recuperación de la economía, deberá asegurar una inclusión justa de la comunidad Latina.

Los Latinos son el segmento más joven y más creciente de la fuerza laboral de los Estados Unidos, con una edad media de 25.8 años. Anualmente, el poder adquisitivo de los Latinos contribuye $700 billones a la economía Estadounidense, y se proyecta que este poder alcanzará $1 trillón en el año 2010. Sin embargo, la capacidad económica de la comunidad Latina está en peligro por los efectos de la crisis inmobiliaria y grandes aumentos en el nivel de desempleo.

Milton Rosado, Presidente Nacional de LCLAA comentó, “Las épocas desesperadas requieren medidas audaces y acción inmediata para revitalizar nuestra economía y nuevamente atraer la prosperidad a este país. Esperamos que esta crisis nacional resulte en un plan de estímulo económico que incluya a las familias trabajadoras Latinas, que las eduque y las entrene para competir por las oportunidades de trabajo que se crearán en una economía nueva, más eficiente, y sostenible.”

La Dra. Gabriela D. Lemus, Directora Ejecutiva de LCLAA adhirió, “Mientras los legisladores deliberan sobre una agenda para estimular nuestra economía, les urgimos que incluyan provisiones claves que generarán beneficios estimuladores a largo plazo como extender los beneficios del Programa de Cupones de Alimentos (Food Stamps) al igual que los beneficios proveídos por el Seguro de Desempleo para las familias de pocos recursos y los desempleados. Inversión en la renovación de nuestra infraestructura creará trabajos, mientras que proveer ayuda fiscal a los estados fomentará las economías locales que están luchando con dificultades financieras; esto prevendrá mas perdidas de trabajos y recortes en los servicios sociales esenciales.”

El reporte de este mes sobre la situación del empleo indica que en el mes de diciembre la economía recortó 524,000 trabajos, acumulando una perdida de 2.5 millones de trabajos en el año 2008. “El presidente-electo ha sugerido que el nivel de desempleo alcanzará dígitos dobles si no se toma acción inmediatamente para estimular la economía. Familias de bajos recursos y comunidades de color serán las más afectadas. Como hemos anticipado, el nivel de desempleo de los Latinos, previamente 8.6 por ciento subió al 9.2 por ciento en diciembre. Al menos que se haga algo, el desempleo para los Latinos aumentará, al igual que su nivel de pobreza, reportado en un 26.4 por ciento,” agregó Milton Rosado.

“Es critico que legisladores de ambos partidos trabajen juntos y aseguren la aprobación de un paquete de estímulo económico que prevenga que esta recesión se empeore. Será grave no hacer lo suficiente para prevenir que más familias trabajadoras pongan en riesgo su avance socio-económico a corto y largo plazo. El mensaje del presidente-electo sobre la economía es aleccionador, pero nos da esperanza. Apoyamos su énfasis en eludir retorica ideológica para enfocarnos en soluciones pragmáticas. El presidente electo Barack Obama y nuestro nuevo Congreso cuentan con el apoyo del público Americano,” concluyó la Dra. Lemus.

El Consejo Sindical para el Avance del Trabajador Latinoamericano (Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, o LCLAA) es la sede del movimiento laboral Latino. LCLAA es una organización nacional Latina que representa los intereses de más de 1.7 millones de sindicalistas Latinos en todo el país y el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico. LCLAA se fundó en 1973 y es la principal organización nacional del país para los trabajadores Latinos y sus familias. LCLAA aboga por los derechos de todos los trabajadores que buscan justicia en el lugar de trabajo y sus comunidades. LCLAA es un grupo de electores potenciales que representa a los trabajadores Latinos que pertenecen tanto al AFL‐CIO como a la federación Change to Win.
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January 9, 2009 - LCLAA CALLS FOR FAIR INCLUSION OF LATINOS IN ECONOMIC RECOVERY: For Immediate Release
January 9, 2009

Contact: Andrea Delgado 202-637-5120
Lydia Gonzalez 202-508-6917

LCLAA CALLS FOR FAIR INCLUSION OF LATINOS IN ECONOMIC RECOVERY-
STIMULUS PLAN MUST ENSURE ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES BENEFIT LATINOS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As lawmakers consider plans to stimulate the economy and create job opportunities, the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) anticipates that any bill to promote economic recovery will ensure the fair inclusion of Latinos.

Latinos are the youngest and fastest growing segment of the U.S. workforce with a median age of 25.8 years. Their purchasing power contributes $700 billion to the U.S. economy annually and is projected to reach $1 trillion by 2010. Yet, economic empowerment for the Latino community is in jeopardy because of the combined effects of the housing crisis and rising job loss.

Milton Rosado, LCLAA’s National President stated, “desperate times warrant bold and urgent action to revitalize our economy and bring back prosperity to this country. We hope that this national crisis translates into the passage of a recovery plan that is inclusive of Latino working families – that educates and trains them to compete for the job opportunities that will be created in a newer, more efficient, and sustainable economy.”

Gabriela D. Lemus, LCLAA’s Executive Director remarked, “as lawmakers deliberate on an agenda to jump-start our economy, we urge them to include key provisions that will generate long-lasting stimulation benefits including: extended food stamp and unemployment insurance benefits for low-income and unemployed families; investment in infrastructure redevelopment to spur job creation; and boosting struggling local economies by providing crucial aid to states to prevent further job loss and cuts in vital health and social programs.”

“The President-elect has suggested that double digit unemployment rates are possible if immediate action is not taken to stimulate the economy. Low-income families and communities of color are likely to be hit hardest. As we anticipated, the level of unemployment for Latinos –previously at 8.6 percent- rose to 9.2 percent in December. Unless something is done, Latino unemployment will continue to climb, along with their poverty level currently reported at 26.2 percent,” Rosado added.

Today’s job report indicates that in December the economy eliminated 524,000 jobs, adding up to a total loss of 2.5 million jobs in 2008. “It is critical that lawmakers reach across the aisle to work together and ensure passage of an economic stimulus bill that will prevent this recession from worsening. There is danger in not doing enough to prevent more working families from endangering their short and long-term socio-economic advancement. The President-elect’s message on the economy today is sobering but hopeful. We echo his emphasis on pragmatic solutions and the avoidance of ideological rhetoric. President-elect Barack Obama and our new Congress count with the support of the American people,” concluded Dr. Lemus.

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, LCLAA is the home of the Latino Labor Movement. LCLAA is a national Latino organization representing the interests of over 1.7 million Latino trade unionists throughout the country and the Common Wealth of Puerto Rico. LCLAA was founded in 1973 and is America’s premier national organization for Latino workers and their families. LCLAA advocates for the rights of all workers seeking justice in the workplace and their communities. LCLAA is a constituency group representing Latino workers in both the AFL-CIO and Change to Win Federation.
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