Latinos for America Update: The Next Step

Vol. 1, No. 5--December 4, 2004

by Ralph I. Miller, Executive Director.

A day after the election, we asked members to send us their thoughts on where LFA should go from here. Members from around the country sent in their thoughts on moving forward. We're happy to say that no one suggested we cease our efforts! Rather, we have been encouraged by the many pragmatic, practical, and focused calls to action outlined in the submissions. While some question the effectiveness of our group, most people urged us to keep the organization intact and prepare for future races.

Andrés Ramírez wrote, "given the level of Latino support for Bush, it is clear that the Democratic National Committee and the Kerry campaign did not have an effective campaign strategy directed to Latinos, both in terms of its ground organization in the key states, its lack of effectiveness in securing the effective participation of local Latino leaders and elected officials on a timely basis, andits absence of a clear, targeted message to Latino voters."

Pam Paul wrote, "Honestly, I can think of nothing more instrumental than LFA becoming the leading Latino/Hispanic Leader Building Machine in the Nation!"

The following summary is an outline of the ideas and suggestions that we consider achievable-having practical implementation potential-through a national grassroots organization such as ours. Please review these thoughts and proposed initiatives. We must come together to change our country.

Let's explore these issues together, as LFA takes the next steps forward. This will surely be an uphill climb. We are resolute in our beliefs and will remain steadfast in our commitment.

To read The Next Step in its entirety, visit the LFA Activist's Corner.

On the Nomination of Alberto Gonzales

In recent days, Latinos for America training graduates, activists and leaders have engaged in constructive and spirited dialogue regarding the nomination of White House Counsel Alberto Gonzales to the post of U.S. Attorney General.

While the ascent of a Hispanic to this post is of historic importance to Latinos, it is of great concern to many in this organization that this Latino is responsible for some of the most alarming aspects of President Bush's war-time record. [read more]

LFA Endorsement: Steven Ybarra for DNC Hispanic Caucus Chair

Since its inception less than 9 months ago, Latinos for America has grown into a premier campaign training organization. This election cycle, LFA trained a diverse group of over 2,000 activists in no-nonsense campaign management. The successes of these trainings were most easily measured in the LFA Training Graduates who brought home wins and made historic gains into hostile Republican territory. What made this organization so attractive to national non-profits and PACs who requested LFA trainers to lead their sessions, can in large part be summed up with two words: Steven Ybarra.

From his early days in farm-worker organizing, and into the years of high-stakes consulting and campaign management, Steven Ybarra's outside-the-box thinking helped him achieve a reputation of hard work and meticulous and effective strategizing. As lead trainer for Latinos for America, Steven Ybarra brought issues, tactics and style, home. [read more]

To find out how you can support Steven Ybarra, contact .

How to Form Your Own LFA Chapter

An LFA Chapter is a perfect way to bring people of the community together for ideas on improving our neighborhoods and our country. There are plenty of ways to help your community thrive, and political empowerment is just one of them.

Find out how you can form a chapter in your area today. Contact .

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