Latinos are now the majority in California and Latinas play a significant role in moving our state forward. For 28 years, Hispanas Organized for Political Equality, also known as HOPE, has been at the vanguard of uplifting the next generation of Latina leaders. HOPE is unique in their work, creating a network of Latinas in leadership roles across sectors who come together regularly to network, agenda set, and advocate for issues important to the community. The signature event for HOPE is the annual Latina Action Day, which convenes over 400 Latinas throughout the state at the State Capitol to advocate for the advancement of Latinas in all aspects of civic life. During the conference, attendees engage in state policy measures that impact Latinas in the areas of education, healthcare, economic, and civic empowerment. Many of the HOPE alumni have gone on to run major corporations, get elected to office and lead state agencies. Their work is making leadership in California more diverse and inclusive, and is a model for others to follow.
Photo credit: Hispanas Organized for Political Equality® (HOPE)