While they currently make up only 1% of all local and federal officials in the United States, Latinos—who are one-fifth of the U.S. population—are undoubtedly claiming their power in our democracy. For starters, more than half of eligible Latinos voted in 2020 for the first time in U.S. history. That’s a big deal. But Latinos are also becoming more politically engaged. Many of them—such as our rockstar alums, New York State Assemblymembers Marcela Mitaynes, Catalina Cruz, and Jessica González-Rojas; Amanda Farías; Alexa Avilés; Pierina Sanchez; and Elisa Crespo in New York (all featured in City & State NY’s Latino Power 100 list!)—are leading our movement to create a democracy that represents and works for everyone. As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, we remain committed to training more Latinos to run for office, win, and lead because they’re the leaders our communities and democracy need.

Not only is the "Remain in Mexico" poicy inhumane and unlawful, it is now set to continue under the Biden administration. This policy, first enacted under Trump, perpetuates an anti-immigrant, xenophobic legacy that harms thousands of asylum seekers and violates their rights.

As a community of New Americans and BIPOC, we are outraged by this poilcy and demand the Biden administration to end MPP for good. It's the right thing to do and must happen ASAP.

At New American Leaders, we know there are no “off years” when it comes to our democracy. That’s why we’ll be celebrating Vote Early Day on October 23rd to make sure every American knows their options to vote early in elections big and small. Join the #voteearly movement today!