Dear friends and colleagues:
As many of you may already know, the current FY2016 proposed state budget did not reflect renewed funding for the Illinois Latino Family Commission.
As many of you may already know, the current FY2016 proposed state budget did not reflect renewed funding for the Illinois Latino Family Commission.
We understand the challenges of balancing a budget under the current fiscal constraints, but it should not reduce the voice of the fastest growing part of Illinois' population - that should remain a priority.
We are extremely appreciative of the incredible outpouring of support we have received from all of you on behalf of the Illinois Latino Family Commission and its historic role and need in Illinois. Your assistance and belief in our work validates our commitment to move forward.
Like many of you, we find ourselves in the position of rethinking how we can best advance the Latino community. As such, we have begun restructuring to ensure that we can successfully meet our legislative mandate.
We are also energized and encouraged by a recent partnership with the Chicago Community Trust, one of the most respected community foundations in the country, but that will not be enough. We need your help. Many of you have asked how you can be of assistance; we encourage you to talk about the role and impact of the Commission as you engage with your civic leaders and decision makers. The proverbial ball is now in the General Assembly's court, and we remain confident that as they make tough appropriation decisions, they will ensure the Commission remains a strong state actor on behalf of Illinois’ Latino families.
On behalf of the Illinois Latino Family Commission and our dedicated body of Commissioners, we thank you for your support and look forward to your continued partnership.
Layla P. Suleiman Gonzalez, Ph.D., J.D.
Executive Director
IL Latino Family Commission
