To help celebrate Hispanic heritage, approximately 80 Latino community leaders gathered Sept. 13 in Denver for a summit organized by .
During the event, there were several roundtable discussions about issues facing Latinos with the goal of bringing some of them to the senator to take to Washington.
Leaders came from areas such as the San Luis Valley, Alamosa and the Western Slope.
“I think anytime we can bring together different voices in the state, it’s something we try and do,” said Kristin Lynch, press secretary for Bennet.
Civic engagement, inclusivity and education were some of the topics discussed.
Bennet was delayed in joining the summit as he spent time visting with flood victims in Aurora and Commerce City on Sept. 13.
Members of the summit brought a variety of ideas to the table.
“There’s some very specific Latino issues, there’s also some unique things the Colorado community is facing and how we accomplish that together is really important,” said Theresa Pena, who has previously served on the Denver Public School Board and the Colorado Education Campaign.
Michelle Lucero, chief legal officer at Children’s Hospital, served as a summit member and introductory speaker. She praised Sen. Bennet in serving the Latino community.
“I think the goal for today is to provide a slate of issues, concerns and initiatives that we as a Latino community want the senator to either champion or react to or be a liaison in Washington,” Lucero said.
She mentioned the issues facing the community are more vaired than just immigration.
“I think when you look at the Latino community you think of immigration and very distinct areas. I think this day is going to show it’s a broad array of issues,” Lucero said.
Joe Vaccarelli: 303-954-2396, jvaccarelli@denverpost.com or
