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MCLA is an executive branch agency. We advise on policy and legislation. We work for the people of Minnesota and 367,000 Latino Minnesotans to ensure equality and equity statewide.

MCLA es una agencia de gobierno que asesora sobre políticas y legislación. Trabajamos para la gente de Minnesota y 367,000 Latinos, a fin de asegurar igualdad y equidad en todo el estado.

Contents | Contenido

• Executive Director's Message || Mensaje de la Directora
• Legislative Updates | Actualizaciones legislativas
• MCLA in the community || MCLA en la comunidad
• Immigration: Resources and Information || Inmigración: recursos e información
• Jobs and Grants Opportunities || Oportunidades de trabajo y financiamiento

Message from the Executive Director || Mensaje de la Directora Ejecutiva

Hope, Action, and Unity for a Better Future

Rosa Tock

Hope can feel out of reach these days, especially amid economic uncertainty and growing fears within immigrant communities, but powerful data and stories remind us of the critical role immigrants play in building a stronger Minnesota. A recent study from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) highlights that foreign-born residents who come from all over the world, not only meet essential workforce needs but also drive innovation, create businesses, and strengthen the economy. In fact, Minnesota’s foreign-born labor force participation rate exceeds the state average, reflecting their vital contributions across sectors. Another report by DEED also points out that even undocumented immigrants help fill urgent workforce gaps as our state navigates shifting demographics. And yet, harmful federal policies and rhetoric threaten to undermine this progress—cutting funding, dehumanizing communities, and putting families at risk.

At MCLA, we see the challenges firsthand, but we also witness the inspiring work of advocates and organizations stepping up with resources, solidarity, and care. That collective action is what fuels our hope. It is also why this year’s Latino Day at the Capitol, on April 24, is themed around “Hope, Action, and Unity”—a call to gather in the people’s house, raise our voices, and shape a better future together. Join us!

Details of the program and registration are below and on our website. 

Lee este mensaje y el boletín en español aquí. 

The 2025 Legislative Session || La sesion legislativa 2025

Legislative Updates | Actualizaciones legislativas

Join MCLA for Latino Day at the Capitol on Thursday, April 24 from 2 to 4 p.m.! This special event brings together Latino dignitaries, civic leaders, and community members for an afternoon of unity, action, and inspiration at the Minnesota State Capitol.

Event Registration - Register here! - 

Open to the public and livestreamed by MCLA, this event is a powerful opportunity to stand together for a better future.

For more info, contact Estefania Jauregui: [email protected]

The session at mid-point

In addition to monitoring and tracking dozens of bills during this legislative session before the legislative recess (April 11-21), MCLA has been supporting and advocating for bills that reflect the values and priorities of Minnesota’s Latino communities.

The Minnesota Latino Museum bill marks a major step toward preserving and celebrating Latino heritage through a dedicated cultural institution. Meanwhile, the interpreter services work group responds to growing concerns about language access in healthcare, aiming to build a more inclusive system where all patients can communicate clearly and receive proper care.

Other priorities include strengthening the teacher pipeline through a permanent scholarship for aspiring teachers of color—part of a broader effort to diversify Minnesota’s educator workforce—and supporting the launch of an affordable vehicle insurance program to help reduce transportation barriers for low-income families. Each of these initiatives addresses an urgent need and reflects the impact of community voices shaping state policy.

MCLA in the community || MCLA en la comunidad

Council board member Martha Castañón and Estefania Jauregui, Office Manager.

On Saturday, March 29, MCLA staff traveled to Fargo to attend the Tri-College Alliance of Latinos (TAL) Conference, held at North Dakota State University. The event offered a valuable opportunity to share information about the Council’s work, connect with students and community members, and strengthen relationships across the tri-college area, including Moorhead.

Council board member Martha Castañón served as the keynote speaker and delivered a powerful address that energized and inspired attendees. Her words served as a reminder of the strength, resilience, and potential within Latino communities across the state and beyond.

Immigration: Information and resources || Inmigración: información y recursos

La comunidad inmigrante no está sola / The immigrant community is not alone

Jobs and Opportunities

Jobs in Government and Non-profits / Grants

Direct Care and Treatment (DCT) at DHS is seeking an individual to join the DCT Corporate Compliance Team for an exciting and rewarding opportunity as a Deputy Director of Internal Audits! Applicants who are not current state employees can apply through the State Careers Site by searching for: Job ID 85527

Closing date: 4/23/2025

Minneapolis Public Schools is hiring for a variety of roles! Looking for meaningful work this summer or during the school year? MPS has several opportunities open:

• Summer Temporary Child Care Assistants with Minneapolis Kids help provide a safe, engaging environment for children during summer programming.
• School Bus Drivers for the 2024–25 school year play a vital role in getting students to school safely and on time—CDL training provided!
• Reserve Cadre Teachers support schools across the district, offering flexibility and variety for licensed educators.

UnidosMN is looking for a variety of positions: Immigration, climate, and healthcare organizers; a Data and technology manager, and a Communications Fellow. To learn more about these jobs go to their career opportunities here.

The Next Generation Public Health Pathways Grant funds pilot programs that create new, inclusive entry points into public health careers. With $276,457 available, the grant will support 4–6 projects ($20K–$75K each) led by schools, non-profits, tribal nations, and more. Projects should offer hands-on learning for youth, students, or professionals while building public health skills and career pathways. For more information, click here.

Do you have an event or job openings you want to share with the community? Let us know! Email: [email protected]