LULAC CELEBRATES JULY 4TH TO HONOR OUR FREEDOMS AND INDEPENDENCE

Washington, DC - The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the Nation’s oldest and largest civil rights organization in the U.S., honors and recognizes those individuals that serve our country by defending and protecting our freedoms and liberties that define the United States of America, on this Independence Day.

LULAC honors the extraordinary courage and resilience of the countless, and at times faceless, Latino soldiers, young and old, who through their sacrifice have added a deeper meaning to our patriotic displays and profound national pride. Many continue to fight for the land they call their own even while being undocumented, resulting in deportation and separation from their families, even though they fought for freedoms and rights they themselves do not have. LULAC extends heartfelt gratitude to all service members, past, present, and future, for their dedication and sacrifices.

"On this July 4th, LULAC pauses to celebrate with all Americans how blessed we are to live in the USA," says Roman Palomares, LULAC National President. "We reiterate our thanks and profound respect to all the defenders of our liberties. We will continue to fight for the rights and protection of all our veterans, especially those that have been deported even after they loyally and honorably served in the military. LULAC is committed to working with our elected members of Congress to ensure that every service member now living far away from home is brought back and allowed to live in the country they defended and sacrificed so much for," adds Palomares.

In 2024, Latinos comprise a sizable portion of the U.S. military, reflecting their long-standing commitment to the nation. According to the Department of Defense, approximately 16% of active-duty service members are Latino, a number that has steadily increased over the years. This statistic underscores the historical dedication and contributions of Latinos from the United States and Puerto Rico to the U.S. military, exemplifying their unwavering patriotism and service.

"America is the nation it is today because its founders envisioned a land of opportunity for all who came to make it their new home," continues Palomares. "Now it is up to us to make sure that it continues to be that land of promise and not turn back the clock on our civil rights. LULAC embodies the spirit of civic engagement. As we join with family and friends this July 4, may we rededicate ourselves and remain committed to exercising our right to vote this November, a right that millions of undocumented individuals and our 538,000 DACA recipients still do not have. We must use our voices as a call to action. The lives of those that have been lost cannot be in vain."

This July 4th, we honor their legacy by reaffirming our commitment to justice, equality, and the promise of a better future for all, especially those that continue to be marginalized.

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About League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest Latino civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Latinos and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 535 Councils and 145,000 members across the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services, and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting the critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.