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LULAC CELEBRATES 96 YEARS OF ADVOCACY, LEADERSHIP, AND PROGRESS FOR LATINOS IN AMERICA

Nation's Oldest and Largest Latino Civil Rights Organization Marks Nearly a Century of Defending Equality and Opportunity

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) proudly celebrates its 96th anniversary, reflecting on nearly a century of groundbreaking achievements and reaffirming its commitment to the advancement of Latinos in the United States. Since its founding in 1929, LULAC has championed civil rights, voter empowerment, education, and economic opportunity for millions of Latinos, making an indelible mark on American history.

"As we celebrate this historic milestone, we honor the sacrifices and triumphs of those who came before us while embracing the road ahead with courage and determination," said Roman Palomares, LULAC National President and Chairman of the Board. "For 96 years, LULAC has been at the forefront of the fight for justice and equality, and today, we renew our promise to stand strong in the face of challenges and continue advocating for the dignity and rights of every Latino in our nation."

Five Landmark Milestones in LULAC's Legacy

LULAC has led the charge in several pivotal moments that have reshaped Latino civil rights and opportunities in the United States. Among the most significant milestones:

  • Del Rio ISD v. Salvatierra (1930) – LULAC supported the first school desegregation lawsuit filed in Texas, challenging discriminatory practices that segregated Mexican-American children. This case laid the foundation for future legal battles against educational segregation, leading to victories like Mendez v. Westminster (1947) and Brown v. Board of Education (1954).

  • Hernández v. Texas (1954) – LULAC played a critical role in this landmark Supreme Court case, which ruled that Mexican Americans were entitled to equal protection under the 14th Amendment. This decision set a precedent for future civil rights litigation and ensured Latino inclusion in the broader fight for racial justice in the United States.

  • The Little School of 400 (1957) – LULAC launched this pioneering educational initiative in Texas to teach 400 basic English words to Spanish-speaking children before entering first grade. This program became the model for the federal Head Start Program, which has since benefited millions of children nationwide by providing early childhood education opportunities.

  • Formation of SER Jobs for Progress National, Inc. (1964)– Born out of LULAC's commitment to economic empowerment, SER National provides job training and workforce development programs for Latinos. Today, it is the largest Latino-led workforce development organization, operating over 200 affiliates across the United States and Puerto Rico, helping thousands of individuals gain meaningful employment and economic mobility.

  • The Establishment of the LULAC National Educational Service Centers (LNESC) (1973) – Recognizing the need for expanded educational opportunities, LULAC launched LNESC, which has since provided scholarships, college readiness programs, and leadership training to more than 600,000 students nationwide. Education remains a core pillar of LULAC's mission as Latinos continue to be the fastest-growing demographic in higher education.

  • The 2013 Voting Rights Act Challenge – LULAC took a leading role in the legal fight against restrictive voting laws in Texas and across the country, which disproportionately impacted Latino and minority communities. Today, LULAC continues to combat voter suppression, ensuring that every eligible Latino voter has access to the ballot box and a voice in democracy.

  • Advocacy for Immigration Reform (2021-Present) – In recent years, LULAC has intensified its efforts to protect Dreamers, advocate for comprehensive immigration reform, and fight against inhumane border policies. As attacks on immigrant communities persist, LULAC remains resolute in its mission to ensure justice, dignity, and fair treatment for all.

"LULAC's journey is a testament to the power of unity, resilience, and perseverance," said Palomares. "As we look toward our 100th anniversary, we stand ready to confront new challenges and seize new opportunities to build a brighter, more equitable future for Latinos across the United States. The work is far from over, and our commitment has never been stronger."

A Call to Action: Join the Movement

As LULAC celebrates 96 years of impact, we invite all Latinos and allies to be part of this historic movement. Whether through civic engagement, advocacy, or mentorship, everyone has a role to play in continuing LULAC's mission. Together, we can shape the next century of Latino leadership and advancement.

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About League of United Latin American Citizens (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 https://lulac.org/.