U.S. Representative Shri Thanedar from Michigan’s 13th Congressional District, met with Hispanic community leaders on Friday, June 9 at Armando’s Mexican Restaurant in Southwest Detroit. The meeting was convened by the Consortium of Hispanic Agencies (CHA) and sponsored by Hacienda Mexican Foods owner Lydia Gutierrez. Nearly 40 local leaders attended the meeting to hear the Congressman speak about his background as an immigrant and how that experience has shaped his commitment to helping immigrants and others in need of community support to gain equal opportunity to achieve the American Dream for themselves and their families.
Issues raised during the meeting included the Drivers Licenses for undocumented individuals, jobs and job training for the unemployed, and the need for federal funding for local Detroit agencies that help thousands of our immigrant community members and those who are underserved and underrepresented. The Congressman also provided information on the federal bills that he is supporting. The question was raised on whether there are Hispanics on his staff. He indicated that there are in his DC office, but he is still looking to add Hispanics in his local office. He vowed to keep in regular contact with our community and to meet on a regular basis to keep up to date on the issues and concerns of the Latino community. The Congressman agreed to host a follow up virtual town hall in August. Details to follow.
