May 14, 2013

Contact:Paloma Zuleta, 202-833-6130, PZuleta (at) LULAC . org

Washington, D.C.- As co-chairs of the Hispanic Education Coalition (HEC), LULAC and MALDEF issued a joint letter to Senate leadership urging support of amendments introduced by Senators Hirono, Coons, Blumenthal, and Hatch. HEC includes over 20 organizations focused on improving educational opportunities and outcomes for more than the 54 million Hispanics living in the United States and Puerto Rico.

HEC supports Senator Hirono’s amendment because it would extend federal higher education support under Title IV of the Higher Education Act to Dreamers and Blue Card holders. In addition, HEC supports the amendment introduced by Senator Coons because it would ensure that Dreamers and other immigrants would be eligible to apply for professional and technical trade licensing once they adjust their immigration status. Furthermore, HEC supports the amendment introduced by Senator Blumenthal which provides a 5 year path to citizenship for all students including those who are presently not recognized as Dreamers. Lastly, HEC supports the amendment introduced by Senator Hatch which would raise revenue for Stem related education at Hispanic serving institutions.

The only amendment specifically opposed by HEC in its letter was an amendment introduced by Senator Cruz. The Cruz amendment would change existing funding streams for STEM education to block grant funding. Historically, education block grants have failed to address the needs of Latino students, migrant students, immigration students, and English language learners.

“LULAC supports the amendments introduced by Senators Hirono, Coons, Blumenthal, and Hatch because they would help ensure that all Latino children have access to a high quality affordable education,” said LULAC National President Margaret Moran. “We will continue to urge the Senate to reach a consensus on an immigration bill that allows for every member of the Latino community to pursue their professional aspirations.”

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The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 900 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.

May 10, 2013

Contact:Paloma Zuleta, 202-833-6130, PZuleta (at) LULAC . org

Washington, D.C.- LULAC condemns as factually inaccurate and bigoted the Heritage Foundation report regarding immigration reform.

The report's findings are questionable at best and misleading at worst, due to its lack of methodological rigor. In addition, the organization hired authors whose previous writings claimed Latinos were genetically inferior to Whites.

"The veil has been lifted of the once respected conservative think tank and a culture of bigotry that was allowed to dictate the organization's policy positions has been revealed," said Brent Wilkes, executive director.

The report released by the Heritage Foundation has received criticism from both sides of the aisle, including from supporters like Senator Marco Rubio who called the findings "flawed" and "illegitimate."

“Comprehensive immigration reform has the support of the American people that includes conservatives, liberals, people of faith, the business community, and many others who see its economic and social benefit. The Heritage Foundation through its website purports to promote family values. If it really cares about family values it would stop publishing inaccurate reports and instead support comprehensive immigration reform. Such an action would truly support family values in that it would allow the unification of families and allow 11 million hard working Americans to live the American Dream," said Wilkes.

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The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 900 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.

May 8, 2013

Contact: Paloma Zuleta, 202-833-6130, PZuleta (at) LULAC . org

Washington, D.C. – The Amendment introduced by U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy would provide equal treatment for same-sex couples under the recently proposed immigration reform legislation. Specifically, the Amendment would allow gay and lesbian American citizens to sponsor their foreign partners for a green card, a right currently provided to heterosexual couples.

“LULAC works to advance the needs of all Latinos – including the LGBT community and today we stand with Senator Leahy in support of an Amendment that calls for the equal treatment of all Latinos,” said LULAC National President Margaret Moran.

LULAC has continuously worked to advance equal justice for all Latinos, including the LGBT community. In 2006, it launched the LULAC Equality Project in Dallas, Texas. In 2012, it unanimously passed a national resolution for marriage equality. LULAC believes that this Amendment would help strengthen the existing proposed legislation in that it ensures that no one would be left behind.

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The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 900 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.

26 de abril 2013

Contacte a: Paloma Zuleta, 202-833-6130, PZuleta (at) LULAC . org

YOUNGSTOWN - Como parte de un esfuerzo de varios años para expandir drásticamente el acceso de banda ancha y la alfabetización en la comunidad hispana, la Liga de Ciudadanos Latinoamericanos Unidos (LULAC) y Time Warner Cable (TWC) ofrecen acceso gratuito a Internet de alta velocidad, computadoras , y otros equipos para un nuevo centro tecnológico en Shirley Road, cerca de la carretera interestatal 680 y Pemberton Park.

El mas recién " Centro Tecnológico Para Empoderar Hispano América" tendrá su sede en el edificio de la Organización Cívica y Cultural Hispana Americana (OCCHA). TWC ahora financia por completo siete centros de LULAC en todo el país, y al mismo tiempo proporciona acceso gratuito de banda ancha y de alta velocidad a otros ocho centros.

"OCCHA está encantado de ser el destinatario de la subvención " Centro Tecnológico Para Empoderar Hispano América" -- concedida por Time Warner Cable y la Liga de Ciudadanos Latinoamericanos Unidos. El nuevo equipo de cómputadoras y el acceso a banda ancha de alta velocidad, nos permitirá proporcionar a los clientes un centro de computación del ultimo estado de la técnica y servicios de Internet ", dijo Susan Nieves, Directora Ejecutiva de OCCHA. “Estamos muy agradecidos por el centro de la tecnología que nos ayudará a proporcionar a los hispanos y otros en nuestra comunidad multi-cultural con la mejor tecnología informática desde hace muchos años por venir ".

Los centros proveen entrenamiento laboral y ayuda en la búsqueda, cursos de inglés, clases de ciudadanía, capacitación en informática y certificaciones, entornos de aprendizaje para los estudiantes durante las horas después de clases, ayuda con las aplicaciones universitarias y seminarios de ayuda financiera. La iniciativa aumenta el acceso a la tecnología, el cual no es accesible para muchas familias hispanas de bajos ingresos.

Los representantes de la junta de directores OCCHA, Time Warner Cable y LULAC estarán presentes para una dedicación y jornada de puertas abiertas el Viernes, 26 de abril.

"El centro de tecnología ofrecerá servicios como la programación educativa, capacitación en tecnología informática, y la inserción laboral, mejorando la cantidad de deserción escolar y las tasas de desempleo que son tan altos en la comunidad", dijo el presidente nacional de LULAC Margaret Moran. "Sabemos que la asociación con Time Warner Cable proporcionará acceso crítico a la banda ancha y la tecnología, mitigando la brecha digital en todo el país."

El Centro de Youngstown es uno de los cuatro nuevos centros creados este año por TWC y LULAC. Nuevo equipo de cómputadoras y dos años de servicio gratuito, de alta velocidad "Business Class" de banda ancha se instalarán en la tecnología de los centros LULAC de la comunidad ubicados en Lincoln, Nebraska y Nuevo Laredo y El Paso, Texas.

"Time Warner Cable se enorgullece de esta asociación para llegar a las comunidades a las que servimos y empoderarlas con todo lo que tiene para ofrecer banda ancha", dijo John H. Higgins Jr., Vicepresidente de Área de Operaciones, Time Warner Cable, en el noreste de Ohio y Western Pennsylvania. "Estamos muy contentos de ver lo que se puede hacer en este gran centro de Youngstown."

Los centros tecnológicos son parte de LULAC Nacional Educational Services Centers, Inc. y se asocian con organizaciones sin fines de lucro que sirven a las comunidades hispanas de bajos ingresos.

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Acerca OCCHA
Organización Cívica y Cultural Hispana Americana, Inc. (OCCHA) fue establecida en marzo de 1972 como una organización sin fines de lucro. Sus objetivos principales es identificar las áreas problemáticas en la comunidad de habla española y establecer programas que aborden estos problemas. La agencia está financiada por diversas fuentes. Los miembros del personal trabajarán juntos para proporcionar el mejor servicio posible a los clientes. OCCHA está abierto de lunes a jueves de 8:00 am a 4:30 p.m. También abre por las tardes y fines de semana para eventos especiales. Más información se puede encontrar en www.youngstownoccha.org

Acerca de LULAC
La Liga de Ciudadanos Latinoamericanos Unidos (LULAC) es la nación más grande y más antigua organización de derechos civiles con sede voluntario que permite a los hispanoamericanos y construye fuertes comunidades latinas. Con sede en Washington, DC, con 900 ayuntamientos de todo Estados Unidos y Puerto Rico, los programas de LULAC, los servicios y la dirección de la defensa de las cuestiones más importantes para los latinos, satisfaciendo las necesidades críticas de la actualidad y del futuro. Para obtener más información, visite www.LULAC.org

Acerca de Time Warner Cable
Time Warner Cable Inc. (NYSE: TWC) es uno de los mayores proveedores de video, datos de alta velocidad y servicios de voz en los Estados Unidos, conectando más de 15 millones de clientes de entretenimiento, información y entre sí. Time Warner Cable Business Class ofrece datos, video y voz para empresas de cualquier tamaño, servicios de backhaul celular torre a los operadores inalámbricos y soluciones de tecnología de la información gestionados y externalizados y servicios de nube. Time Warner Cable Media, el brazo de publicidad de Time Warner Cable, ofrece a las empresas nacionales, regionales y locales soluciones publicitarias innovadoras. Más información acerca de los servicios de Time Warner Cable está disponible en www.twc.com, www.twcbc.com y www.twcmedia.com.

April 26, 2013

Contact: Paloma Zuleta, 202-833-6130, PZuleta (at) LULAC . org

YOUNGSTOWN - As part of a multi-year effort to dramatically expand broadband access and literacy among the Hispanic community, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and Time Warner Cable (TWC) are offering free, high-speed Internet access, computers, and other equipment for a new technology center on Shirley Road near Interstate 680 and Pemberton Park.

The latest “Empower Hispanic America Technology Center” will be housed at the Organización Cívica y Cultural Hispana Americana (OCCHA) building. TWC now fully funds seven LULAC centers around the country while providing free, high-speed broadband access to eight others.

"OCCHA is delighted to be the recipient of the ‘Empower Hispanic America Technology Center’ grant provided by Time Warner Cable and the League of United Latin American Citizens. The new computer equipment and the complimentary high-speed broadband access will allow us to provide clients with a state-of-the-art computer center and internet service,” said Susan Nieves, OCCHA Executive Director. “We are most grateful for the technology center that will help us provide Hispanics and others in our multi-cultural community with the best in computer technology for many years to come."

The centers provide job training and search assistance, English language courses, Citizenship classes, computer training and certifications, safe learning environments for students during after-school hours, and college application and financial aid seminars. The initiative increases access to technology, which is not accessible to many low income Hispanic families.

Representatives from the OCCHA board of directors, Time Warner Cable and LULAC will be in attendance for a dedication and open house event Friday, April 26.

“The technology center will provide services like educational programming, computer technology training, and job placement, improving dropout and unemployment rates which are so high in the community,” said LULAC National President Margaret Moran. “We know that the partnership with Time Warner Cable will provide critical access to broadband and technology, mitigating the digital divide across the country.”

The Youngstown Center is one of four new centers being set up this year by TWC and LULAC. New computer equipment and two years of free, high-speed “Business Class” broadband service will be installed in LULAC community technology centers located in Lincoln, Neb. and Laredo and El Paso, Texas.

“Time Warner Cable is proud of this partnership to reach into the communities we serve and empower them with all that broadband has to offer,” said Don Kosec, Vice President of Business Class Services, Time Warner Cable. “We are excited to see what can be done at this great facility in Youngstown.”

The technology centers are part of LULAC National Educational Services Centers, Inc. and partner with non-profit organizations that serve low income Hispanic communities.

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About OCCHA
Organización Cívica y Cultural Hispana Americana, Inc. (OCCHA) was established in March of 1972 as a non-profit organization with its principal goals being to identify problem areas in the Spanish-speaking community and to establish programs which would address those problems.The agency is funded by various sources. The staff members will work together to provide the best possible service to the clients. OCCHA is open Monday thru Thursday from 8:00 am to 4:30 p.m. It is also open evenings and weekends for special events. More information can be found at www.youngstownoccha.org

About LULAC
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 900 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org

About Time Warner Cable
Time Warner Cable Inc. (NYSE: TWC) is among the largest providers of video, high-speed data and voice services in the United States, connecting more than 15 million customers to entertainment, information and each other. Time Warner Cable Business Class offers data, video and voice services to businesses of all sizes, cell tower backhaul services to wireless carriers and managed and outsourced information technology solutions and cloud services. Time Warner Cable Media, the advertising arm of Time Warner Cable, offers national, regional and local companies innovative advertising solutions. More information about the services of Time Warner Cable is available at www.twc.com, www.twcbc.com and www.twcmedia.com.

April 24, 2013

Contact: Paloma Zuleta, 202-833-6130, PZuleta (at) LULAC . org

Washington, D.C.- Today, the Hispanic Education Coalition (HEC), co-chaired by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) sent a letter to Members of Congress urging them to match the President’s fiscal year 2014 budget request for Head Start. Due to the sequestration, Head Start, among other important programs, is likely to lose significant funding that would leave an estimated 70,000 students, many of them Hispanic, without access to this critical early education program.

“Since 1929, LULAC has worked to ensure that universal and high quality education is available to Hispanic students everywhere,” said LULAC National President Margaret Moran. “With that in mind, in 1957 we established what would serve as the model for the Head Start program which, at the time, was known as the “Little School of the 400.” To date, Head Start, Migrant and Seasonal Head Start, and Early Head Start have served millions of young children and it is estimated that over 30% of current national Head Start participants are Latino Americans. We are encouraged to see that the President requested increased funds for Head Start and Early Head Start programs and urge Congress to match his request.”

Last month, LULAC sent a letter to Congress urging the immediate repeal of the sequester. In addition, LULAC has been a strong supporter of the Head Start program and has advocated for increased funding. When Congress failed to act, President Obama took action by requesting increased funding for Head Start as part of his fiscal year 2014 budget request to Congress – Head Start was one of the few budget items for which the President sought increased funding.

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About LULAC: The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 900 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.

With the Introduction of Bipartisan Immigration Reform Legislation LULAC Hosts 3 Town Halls in Texas and Offers a Free Webinar Online

Washington, D.C. – LULAC will host town hall meetings across the country to ensure that our community is educated, engaged, and ready to take action with regard to the immigration reform legislation recently introduced in the Senate. Specifically, LULAC is committed to organizing sixty-two immigration reform town halls across the country in collaboration with Latinos United for Immigration Reform. In Texas, LULAC councils from Denton, Lubbock, and Houston will be part of this effort. For more information, or to view the interactive map of town hall locations please click here.

The education piece of the town hall will include community leaders, issue experts, and stake holders who will discuss the importance of immigration reform to our country. The engagement piece will include collecting signatures for a petition that will be sent to Congress calling for passage of immigration reform legislation. The last piece includes the Immigration Reform Action Toolkit to assist LULAC councils in organizing additional town halls in their own community. Download the LULAC Immigration Reform Action Toolkit. Also, LULAC members interested in hosting a town hall should contact Sindy Benavides at SBenavides@LULAC.org for more information.

“LULAC councils stand to play a critical role in passing immigration reform legislation by hosting town halls that educate and mobilize our community,” said LULAC National President Margaret Moran. “We need your help to urge all in our community to attend these town hall meetings. In the end it will be our collective voice that makes the difference in fixing our broken immigration system.”

The first town hall this weekend takes place today, April 19, and is part of the LULAC immigration town hall series, entitled, Reaching the American Dream. Invited guests include The Honorable Marc Veasey, Hector Rodriguez, Isaul Verdin, immigration attorney, and LULAC National Executive Director, Brent Wilkes. The focus is to raise public awareness regarding current immigration reform legislation that was introduced in the Senate earlier this week. Immediately following the event, there will be a candlelight vigil to honor the many lives lost attempting to cross the border.

The second town hall takes place on Saturday, April 20, and is part of the 3rd Annual West Texas Young Adult Summit, hosted by Collegiate LULAC of Texas. The community leaders and immigration experts to be present include Brent Wilkes, LULAC National Executive Director, Baldomero Garza, LULAC National Vice President for the Southwest, and Marco Malagon, President of the North Texas Dream Team. The meeting will discuss the importance of immigration reform in order to bring the immigrant community out of the shadows.

The third town hall will take place on April 24 at the HACR Symposium in Houston, Texas, and will feature LULAC National President Margaret Moran and HACR Board members. The immigration town hall, entitled, Realizing the Dream, includes community leaders and immigration experts who will discuss recent Congressional efforts to pass immigration reform and will call on the community to mobilize in support of immigration reform.

Another resource for learning more about the immigration reform legislation will be a free online webinar. Space is limited so please register your participation now. The webinar will be on Saturday, April 20, at 11:00 A.M. (central time), and will provide information regarding eligibility. Participants will be able to ask questions to licensed immigration attorneys. Reserve a seat now. Seating is limited.

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About LULAC: The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 900 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.

LULAC Will Engage Its Vast Grassroots Network For Complete Passage Of The Bill

Today, a bipartisan group of senators who have been working for months on immigration reform legislation filed the first bill in decades that attempts to fix our nation’s broken immigration system with realistic and pragmatic measures. LULAC applauds the U.S. Senate’s “Gang of Eight” for introducing immigration legislation that offers a roadmap to citizenship for millions of hard-working immigrants who seek an opportunity at the American dream.

While the bill is not perfect LULAC is pleased with most of the provisions. It is obvious that both parties gave ground which is evidence of true compromise. LULAC is heartened that the DREAM students and agricultural workers will have a shorter path to citizenship in the proposed plan. LULAC has consistently advocated for a family reunification component as part of immigration reform and is concerned that the proposed bill scales back family-sponsored immigration by eliminating the ability to sponsor siblings, or children over the age of 30. Likewise, LULAC is dispirited that same-sex couples may not benefit from the proposed legislation; and is opposed to making the pathway to citizenship contingent on additional border enforcement measures which are a waste of taxpayer dollars. There is sufficient data to indicate that border states are already safe – in fact the safest in the country – and misspending billions on apprehension and enforcement is nothing but an expensive attempt to win over immigration opponents.

“Our nation urgently needs a bi-partisan effective and practical immigration system that will reflect the best of America's values,” said LULAC National President Margaret Moran. “The bill that has been crafted by the “Gang of Eight” is a strong step in the right direction for our country, and our families. Fixing our broken immigration system is long overdue, as immigrants have always contributed to the fabric of this country, and eight in ten are in favor of establishing pathways to citizenship. Our country has always stood as a beacon of unbridled opportunity for those who work hard and play by the rules. We cannot simply close our doors to honest, hard-working people that have sought freedom or economic opportunities in this great nation.”

LULAC has a rich history of advocacy in civil rights, economic development, immigration and equal opportunity. LULAC is committed to the passage of fair and just immigration reform and will continue to ensure that the final bill positively impacts the 11 million undocumented immigrants that are living in the shadows of a nation that prides itself on hard work, freedom and liberty.

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About LULAC: The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 900 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.

The Women’s Conference, “Mujer: Ayer, Hoy y Siempre - Raising Our Nation,” Will Address the Challenges Women Face from the Workplace to Technology

Washington, D.C. - On Friday, April 12 and Saturday, April 13 the Women’s Commission of the League of United Latin American Citizens will host its annual National Women’s Conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico. This year’s conference entitled, “Mujer: Ayer, Hoy y Siempre – Raising Our Nation,” will focus on bringing awareness to key issues that impact women’s lives. The workshops and seminars are all open and free to the public. LULAC is grateful for the support of Walmart, Tyson Foods, Inc., The Sherwin-Williams Company, Univision, Macy’s, P&G, McDonald’s, The Coca-Cola Company and The Ford Motor Company. During the two-day event, the citizens of Guaynabo are invited to attend workshops and seminars covering issues such as education, health and nutrition, professional development, employment, immigration, civil rights, domestic violence, and the military.

“The mission of the National Women’s Conference has always been to engage women from across the country to raise their consciousness and enhance their ability to become leaders,” said LULAC National President Margaret Moran. “The conference offers a woman’s perspective on issues that result in achievement gaps, health challenges, and unequal wages across the country. We are very proud of the success this conference has achieved due to the commitment of the Women’s Commission and the generosity of our corporate partners.”

Challenges persist for women in many critical areas. With regard to employment, there are 23.8 million women in the U.S who identify themselves as Latinas and 8.1 million of those Latinas are in the U.S. labor force. Unfortunately, Latinas have the lowest employment-to-population ratio and the highest poverty rates. Latinas are also over-represented in low-wage job sectors. For example, 33.2% are concentrated in service and 31.7% in sales, office, and administrative support. In fact, only 24.1% of Latinas in the labor force are in management, professional and related occupations. Another significant issue continues to be the gender wage gap. Specifically, Latina workers only make 60 cents for every dollar that a white male earns.

Challenges also continue for Latinas in the area of education. In fact, more than one-third of Latinas have less than a high school education. This problem severely limits access and advancement in the workplace. Perhaps most disturbingly, women make up a little over half of the world's population, yet are more likely to go hungry than men and suffer from food shortages.

As part of LULAC’s commitment to eradicate hunger and malnutrition, LULAC, Tyson Foods, and Walmart have joined efforts to distribute approximately 30,400 pounds of chicken breast filet fritters, rib meat, and tenders to non-profit organizations throughout Puerto Rico. Through LULAC programs, services and advocacy, LULAC will continue to tackle important issues by making information and resources available to the community. This donation is part of a one million pound, three-year commitment to fight hunger between Tyson Foods and LULAC.

“At Walmart, we’re focused on how we can make positive change in the communities where we operate and we’re working to lead on social issues,” says Mark Espinoza, Senior Director of Corporate Affairs at Walmart. “Walmart has made a significant commitment to fighting hunger and we’re excited to be able to help deliver this healthy, nutritious and needed food as an extension of our hunger commitment.”

In the past 13 years, Tyson Foods has donated more than 90 million pounds of protein in the United States. “We realize that our fight to end hunger is a huge undertaking, both in the United States and worldwide,” said Nora Venegas, Director of Federal Governmental Relations for Tyson Foods. “We are truly committed to hunger relief and we are proud that this is Tyson’s first food donation to Puerto Rico.”

Finally, as part of the 2013 LULAC National Women’s Conference, LULAC will work to make a difference in the neighborhoods of Puerto Rico. The beauty of the island of Puerto Rico is unmatched, but there are some areas with neighborhoods that need a helping hand to maintain the picturesque and colorful houses that are a staple of Puerto Rico. Most of the people who reside in these homes are senior citizens and the neighborhoods have limited resources. LULAC believes that helping to improve the homes in these high-need areas is a positive first step towards inspiring the revitalization of these important neighborhoods.

To that end, LULAC and Sherwin Williams have collaborated to paint 25 units located in the Sector Juan Domingo located in the City of Guaynabo. The first section of homes will be painted the week of April 12 and will include volunteers from Sherwin Williams who will be donating their time, manpower, and supplies to help restore these once beautiful homes.

Jason Riveiro, Multicultural Marketing Manager of Sherwin Williams, reinforced the company’s promise of community dedication. “The people represent the foundation and the future of our success. At Sherwin Williams, we are proud of our people, of our family of loyal employees. We promise to offer a safe and healthy workplace with opportunities to learn, grow, and be rewarded and recognized for outstanding achievements. We promise to value the diversity of individuals, cultures, points of view, and to improve the quality of life to the communities that we serve,” stated Riveiro.

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About LULAC
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the largest and oldest volunteer-basedcivil rights organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities.Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 900 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico,LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meetingcritical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.lulac.org.www.facebook.com/lulac.national.dc. www.twitter.com/lulac .

About Philanthropy at Walmart
Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are committed to helping people live better through philanthropic efforts. By operating globally and giving back locally, Walmart is uniquely positioned to address the needs of the communities it serves and make a significant social impact within its core areas of giving: Hunger Relief and Nutrition, Sustainability, Career Opportunity and Women’s Economic Empowerment. Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are leading the fight against hunger in the United States with a $2 billion commitment through 2015. Walmart has donated more than one billion meals to those in need across the country. To learn more about Walmart’s giving, visit foundation.walmart.com.

About Tyson Foods
Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN), founded in 1935 with headquarters in Springdale, Arkansas, is one of the world's largest processors and marketers of chicken, beef and pork, the second-largest food production company in the Fortune 500 and a member of the S&P 500. The company produces a wide variety of protein-based and prepared food products and is the recognized market leader in the retail and foodservice markets it serves. Tyson provides products and services to customers throughout the United States and more than 90 countries. The company has approximately 115,000 Team Members employed at more than 400 facilities and offices in the United States and around the world. Through its Core Values, Code of Conduct and Team Member Bill of Rights, Tyson strives to operate with integrity and trust and is committed to creating value for its shareholders, customers and Team Members. The company also strives to be faith-friendly, provide a safe work environment and serve as stewards of the animals, land and environment entrusted to it.

THE BILLS WOULD LOWER GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS FOR TEXAS STUDENTS TO MEET STATE GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Today, LULAC sent a letter in opposition to SB 1724 and SB 3 to the Texas State Senate. LULAC is concerned over the proposed legislation as it creates fewer pathways to education for Latino students and English Language Learners. The legislation would also change the current graduation framework by replacing high expectations for high school completion with weaker requirements.

In recent years, Texas has made great progress in reversing low graduation rates. High school graduation rates have increased, and gaps between students of color and their white peers have narrowed. In particular, the Latino graduation rate in Texas has grown 13% since 2007 (when current graduation requirements were adopted), from 69% to 82%, thereby significantly closing the gap with their white peers.

“The proposed changes in SB 1724 and SB 3 would take Texas back to the bad old days of pervasive tracking, ignoring the clear evidence that all students, regardless of the path they choose after high school, need the same rigorous course content to succeed in an economy that demands high-level knowledge and skills,” said LULAC National President Margaret Moran.

Lowering graduation requirements sends the wrong message to students, families and communities. The current 4x4 graduation standard improves the graduation rates and college and career readiness among all Texas students. We ask for your support in maintaining this vital pipeline to a brighter future for all Texans. If you would like to read the letter please click here.

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About LULAC: The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 900 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.