LULAC AND NAACP STAND UNITED IN SUPPORT OF TEXAS LEGISLATORS DEFENDING DEMOCRACY

Nation's Oldest and Latino and Largest African American Civil Rights Organizations Join Ranks in Historic Unity Partnership for America's Future

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and NAACP issued a statement of unity in continuing support of Texas Democratic legislators who have left the state to prevent a hijacking of democracy through a gerrymandering plan for five new GOP seats in Congress ordered by President Donald Trump.

"NAACP and LULAC are united in calling on every American to support these courageous public servants," said Roman Palomares, LULAC national president and chairman of the board. "We will provide every form of assistance possible to uphold the principles of freedom, liberty, and equality for all. Their victory is our victory, now and for generations to come," said Palomares.

"It is no coincidence that both Latino and African American communities were targeted by the Texas Legislature. This fact alone highlights our common interest," said NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson. "We are urgently calling for unity and appealing for fundraisers to not just provide support these legislators, but to do so directly and to do it now to help sustain the quorum break. They are making great sacrifices amidst threats of removal from office, fines, and fees to prevent the disenfranchisement of people of color. These brave legislators need our help and support!"

"The NAACP and LULAC standing together sends a powerful message: the two most influential civil rights organizations in the United States will not allow democracy to be dismantled," says Juan Proaño, LULAC CEO. "Our unity is rooted in decades of shared struggle, and we defend every voter's voice."

“We must not relent in the quest for justice for these Texas legislators, their staff members, and families who are facing threats, unjust charges, and economic hardship,” says Gabriel Rosales, Texas LULAC State Director.

Gary Bledsoe, Texas NAACP President, expressed gratitude to the legislators for their personal sacrifices. "Jim Crow has returned on steroids, and courageous people like these legislators are essential to protect our freedoms and democracy. The proposed map would allow white voters to control over 80% of all Congressional districts in Texas, despite being only 40% of the population, destroying two African American and two Latino minority opportunity districts. This can only be accomplished by a racial gerrymander designed to harm both communities. They are attempting to completely disenfranchise our communities," he added.

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About NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st-century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

About LULAC
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation's oldest and largest Latino civil rights organization. Founded in 1929, LULAC is committed to advancing the rights and opportunities of Latino Americans through advocacy, community building, and education. With a growing network of councils nationwide, LULAC remains steadfast in its mission to protect and empower millions of Latinos, contributing daily to America's prosperity. For more information about LULAC and its initiatives, please visit www.LULAC.org.