MCLA's Newsletter / Boletin de MCLA





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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.

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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.

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Contents | Contenido

* Message from the Executive Director [ #message ]
* Legislative Updates [ #Session ]
* Job Opening at MCLA  [ #job ]
* Applications Open for the Young Women's Cabinet [ #cabinet ]

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Message from the Executive Director
Rosa Tock Ex Dir
Rosa Tock

Each legislative session brings its own challenges and opportunities, and this one was no exception. Coming on the heels of two successful sessions that brought significant progress for the people of Minnesota, there was a palpable sense of momentum. The achievements of those past sessions—programs and services that directly responded to the needs of hardworking Minnesotans—demonstrated a strong, compassionate state government committed to uplifting its most vulnerable residents. 

However, this year’s legislative work was deeply influenced by shifting winds from Washington, D.C. Unlike Minnesota’s prior efforts to promote inclusion and equity, the federal agenda took a sharp turn—marked by sweeping executive orders that disproportionately targeted our immigrant and refugee communities, international students, and low-income families. These actions threatened not only individual lives but the very values we stand for as a state. As Governor Walz noted during his State of the State address, we must continue to find ways to govern more effectively; yet this cannot be achieved without intentional and comprehensive legislative measures. 

This session reflected the broader national climate—riddled with uncertainty, polarization, and uncharacteristic political upheaval. It began on unstable footing: the start was delayed, a Senator resigned, two special elections were held, and tense negotiations unfolded over the future of several critical programs. In a time when bipartisanship and unity were most needed, we instead witnessed the struggles of a divided government navigating unpredictable waters. 

Amid the turmoil, one truth stood out: the incredible strength, resilience, and civic leadership of Minnesota’s Latino communities. Where institutions faltered and decisions put vulnerable populations at risk, our community stepped up with unwavering determination. 

Organizations like UnidosMN [ [link removed] ] fought tirelessly to protect the integrity of MNCare for All. COPAL [ [link removed] ] and other advocates formed an Immigration Network to monitor and publicly denounce ICE activities that threatens the safety and stability of our families. Numerous other groups under the MiLLA [ [link removed] ] umbrella did what they have always done in challenging times: deliver culturally competent services, train the next generation of Latino leaders, empower new citizens, and strengthen democracy by holding public officials accountable. We continue to build the infrastructure and gather the data necessary to combat harmful myths and narratives that seek to divide rather than unite us. 

The Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs (MCLA) was proud to play a vital role throughout this session. We provided unwavering support to community initiatives, advocated for equitable policies, and served as a bridge between government and grassroots leaders. Our team worked diligently to ensure that the voices of Latinos across the state were heard and respected in every corner of the Capitol. 

We extend our deep gratitude to the legislators, commissioners, and state employees who engaged with us throughout this highly unusual and demanding session. While the legislative calendar may have ended, our work continues. MCLA remains steadfast in our commitment to advocating for Latino communities within state government, fostering inclusive and productive dialogue, and advancing policies that contribute to the well-being and prosperity of all Minnesotans—no matter their background or circumstance. 

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End of Session Updates

A Balanced Budget on the Backs of Immigrants

The 2025 legislative session presented a number of challenges due to shifts in the national and local political landscape and the narrowly divided Minnesota Legislature. In addition, a delayed start stemming from the initial lack of quorum for the first three weeks, slowed down the legislative process. Despite its unprecedented nature, the session included some wins, but also significant setbacks for Minnesota’s Latine communities.

The number one priority for this session was to pass a balanced budget. State leaders reached a bipartisan deal on a new two-year budget, totaling around $66 billion—about $6 billion less than the previous cycle. While the agreement helped move the session forward, it included difficult compromises that directly affect Latine communities.  

One of the most painful parts of balancing the budget was the decision by leadership to end access to Minnesota Care for undocumented adults, a life-saving program that has only been operational since January. This decision is neither fiscally responsible nor morally defensible. These cuts target individuals who have been contributing members of our communities, paying into systems from which they will never benefit. The affected population consists of long-term Minnesota residents who have established deep roots in our communities. They work in essential industries, send their children to our schools, and contribute to the economic vitality of our state. Denying them healthcare access creates public health risks for all Minnesotans while undermining our healthcare system's stability.

Despite this setback, there were some important accomplishments, like adding additional funding to community health clinics. Also, many of the protections and programs for families and workers in the state were kept, such as the state’s paid family leave program and paid sick leave mandate which only suffered small changes [ [link removed] ]. Some Latino organizations received direct appropriations in areas such as workforce development, business and technical assistance, and the culture and arts. In addition, a Spoken Language Health Care Interpreter Workgroup will be established at the Minnesota Department of Health. Professional medical interpretation has been a top priority for the Council, and we were actively supporting this bill this session. 

Our team is working on the final report of this unprecedented legislative session which we will release soon. Stay tuned!

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Stats

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MCLA's Legislative Session Recap

Save the Date: 2025 Legislative Session Recap

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Wrap-up Session

On *Tuesday, June 24, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m*., the Council will host a *virtual event* recapping key highlights from the 2025 legislative session. This public event will reflect on policy developments that impact Latino communities across Minnesota and outline the work that lies ahead.

Topics will include updates on health care, developments in workforce training and worker misclassification, the defeat of some anti-immigrant legislation, and other investments. The program will also address how the federal budget is shaping Minnesota’s financial landscape.

We look forward to your participation in this important conversation.

*Register here [ [link removed] ]!*

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Job Opening at MCLA

MCLA's Executive Director

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Job posting [ [link removed] ]
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*Be MCLA’s next Executive Director!*

With the upcoming retirement of Executive Director Rosa Tock on October 31, 2025, after a remarkable 32-year career in public service, the Council is beginning the search for its next leader. The job posting for MCLA’s next Executive Director is now live. We invite qualified, visionary candidates committed to advancing equity for Latino communities in Minnesota to apply. Finalist interviews are expected to take place this fall.

The Executive Director (Director) assists MCLA with its statutory duty to advise the legislature and the Governor on issues related to economic, social, legal, and political equality for the Latino community in the state. The Director serves as the primary administrator and executive of the Council. The Director implements Council decisions and advocates for public policies recommended by the Council. The Director carries out all duties described in Minnesota Statues 15.0145.

Under Minn. Statutes 15.0145 [ [link removed] ], the executive director of the council is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of the Legislative Coordinating Commission (LCC).

*Apply now!* For more information and to apply, click here [ [link removed] ] and type *Job ID# 86453*

*Opens: June 5, 2025*

*Closes: July 9, 2025*

*Questions about the position? *Contact Jennifer Otley at [email protected] or 651-201-2498.






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Applications Open for the Young Women's Cabinet

Due June 27, 2025

 

The Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota (YWI MN) — a groundbreaking public-private partnership between the Women’s Foundation of Minnesota and the Office of Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan — is now accepting applications for 24 positions on its Young Women’s Cabinet [ [link removed] ]. Young women and gender-expansive people between the ages of 16 and 24 are encouraged to apply through the YWCA St. Paul website [ [link removed] ].

 

Launched in 2016, the YWI MN centers the leadership of young women and gender-expansive youth ages 16–24, especially those who are Black, Indigenous, people of color, LGBTQ+, from Greater Minnesota, or living with disabilities. This initiative is influencing and shaping the future of Minnesota, alongside the fantastic young leaders who are part of the Cabinet. Applications must be received by *Friday, June 27* via the YWCA St. Paul website [ [link removed] ].

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

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