LUPE Honored in Ceremonial Resolution

Trenton – A resolution sponsored by Senator Nellie Pou, Senator M. Teresa Ruiz and Senator Nilsa Cruz-Perez, honoring the work of the Latinas United for Political Empowerment (LUPE) organization, was presented to the president of LUPE PAC Patricia Campos, the president of LUPE Fund Sara Pena as well as past presidents, board and founding members.

“Every day, LUPE educates, engages and empowers Latinas throughout New Jersey to step up, run for office and, at its core, become strong, active women in our democracy,” said Senator Pou (D-Bergen/Passaic). “Getting more women elected to public office, and Latinas specifically, does not only mean the Latina voice is heard, or the ‘minority’ voice is heard, it means that we, as a government and as a state, are stronger because we are better representing our citizens.

“LUPE is one of those organizations we should all be proud of because educating and engaging their members and the community at large pushes all of us to do better. Their work inspires and impacts women in our communities and by doing so, you make New Jersey a better place for all of us.”

“LUPE’s mission was instrumental in the campaign that made me the first Puerto Rican state senator in New Jersey history,” said Senator Ruiz (D-Essex). “At this time, when there is such hostile rhetoric being used to characterize the Latino community LUPE’s efforts are especially important. Unquestionably, we all benefit from having more women at the table and I am grateful for their tireless efforts to make that happen.”

“It’s an honor to support LUPE alongside Senators Pou and Ruiz. It is important that we recognize such an impressive and impactful organization,” said Senator Cruz-Perez (D-Camden/Gloucester). “LUPE is a staple in the Latino community and the impact of their work cannot be overstated.”

The resolution was presented in honor of Women’s History Month to the organization for their steadfast support of women and Latino women specifically and their extensive work advocating for issues important to woman such as: $15 minimum wage, equal pay and paid family leave, among others. Their mission is to empower and encourage Latinas to run for office as well as increase their civic engagement overall.