Our Values, Commitment, and the Path Forward

Dear «First Name»,

As we reflect on NALEO's five decades of service, this moment calls for clarity, steadiness, and a renewed sense of responsibility to the leaders and communities we serve. In marking NALEO's 50 ^th anniversary - and as America approaches its 250 ^th - we are reminded that democracy is not self-sustaining. It is maintained through participation, accountability, and the daily work of public service.

Across the country, Latinos and all Americans and the officials who serve them are facing growing uncertainty. Shifting federal policy and proposals to make voting harder for Americans , immigration enforcement concerns, and broader fiscal and governance challenges are creating real strain on families, local governments, and public trust. In moments like these, leadership is measured not only by what is said, but by how responsibility is carried and decisions are made.

Our role has always been to lead with values. NALEO has continued to speak out in response to immigration enforcement actions that have raised serious concerns. When actions taken conflict with our longstanding bipartisan principles, particularly around due process, human dignity, and public trust, NALEO will not stay silent. Speaking up in these moments is not about politics. It is about the accountability and responsibility we have to the communities and leaders we represent. Our recent statement reflects NALEO's collective voice and our commitment to the values that strengthen communities and democracy.

At the same time, we know that leadership calls for more than words. It requires space for leaders to come together, share challenges, and work toward solutions. That is why the upcoming NALEO 43^rd Annual Conference, July 14-16 in Los Angeles, is being intentionally designed to meet the realities elected officials are facing right now. More than a traditional convening, the Conference will focus on coordination, problem-solving, and practical strategies that leaders can take back to their communities to address the challenges around immigration and the many other pressing issues they confront every day. This is part of how we honor NALEO's legacy - by ensuring today's leaders have what they need to meet this moment and deliver for their communities.

As we look ahead, we are also doing important work internally. We are strengthening our operations, listening closely to our members and partners, and taking a hard look at how we deliver support in a rapidly changing environment. Change is not always easy, but it is necessary. It allows us to stay focused on our mission and remain effective for those who rely on us. This work will help ensure NALEO and NALEO Educational Fund remain strong, credible, and responsive for the next 50 years.

Thank you for your trust and partnership. Our work has always been grounded in shared values, collective leadership, and a deep commitment to empowering those who serve. That commitment continues to guide our work as we move forward. In this milestone year for NALEO and America, we recommit ourselves to strengthening representative democracy by ensuring that Latino leaders and communities are seen, heard, and fully part of our nation's future.

Finally, I want to hear directly from you - what's working, what isn't, and what you need from us in the months ahead. Your feedback will help shape the work we do next. If you have a perspective to share, I hope you will. Please reach out to [email protected] and let me know your thoughts - I'm grateful to be in this work with you.