LULAC Honors America's Veterans and Demands Full Equity for Latino Service Members This Veterans Day

Nation's Oldest and Largest Latino Civil Rights Organization Calls for Respect, Resources, and Action for Those Who Served

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) today honors the millions of men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States. We proudly reaffirm our historic commitment to America's veterans. This Veterans Day arrives at a time when Latino veterans continue to carry a disproportionate share of the burdens of military service, including long wait times for benefits, challenges accessing mental health care, and the lasting impact of traumatic experiences during deployments.

"America's veterans answered the nation's call without hesitation," says Roman Palomares, LULAC National President and Chairman of the Board. "On this Veterans Day, we are called to do the same; to stand with them, to listen to their stories, to honor their courage and to ensure that their sacrifices are met with action, not words."

Latino service members have served in every conflict since World War I and now represent one of the fastest-growing segments of America's armed forces. Yet too many still struggle with obstacles after returning home; delayed disability claims, gaps in culturally competent care, housing and employment barriers, and the deeply personal battles tied to PTSD, military sexual trauma, and moral injury. For many families, the scars of service do not end when the uniform comes off.

"Veterans Day is not just a ceremony, it is a promise," said Lawrence "Larry" Romo, LULAC National Vice President for Military and Veterans Affairs. "A promise that our country will stand by its defenders long after the battles have ended. Latino veterans have never hesitated to serve. Now the nation must ensure that they receive timely benefits, strong mental health support, and real pathways to rebuild their lives. Anything less is unacceptable."

LULAC urges Congress, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and state governments to accelerate benefit reforms, expand mental health access, strengthen suicide-prevention outreach, and invest in culturally responsive support for Latino veterans and their families.

"Every month, I hear from veterans who waited too long for treatment, whose claims were denied without explanation, or who feel left behind after years of honorable service," Romo said. "LULAC will not stop fighting until we close those gaps and honor every veteran with the dignity they deserve."

This Veterans Day, LULAC asks every American to honor veterans not only with words but also through engagement: reach out to a veteran, support organizations that provide direct services, and speak up to demand accountability for the systems meant to care for them.

"Latino veterans have carried the hopes of their families onto battlefields across the world. Their devotion to this country is unquestioned. What must never be questioned is our duty to them to deliver care without delay, compassion without stigma, and opportunities worthy of their service."

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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.