WHY

Almost 57 million strong, Latinos in the US represent over 17% of the population and have more than $1.5 trillion in buying power. in Massachusetts, Latinos comprise 12.4% of the state’s population and in Boston 20% of the population is Latino. The Latino population is also growing rapidly representing over 90% of Boston’s growth in since 1980.

Yet Latinos are grossly under-represented in civic leadership roles of impact. Only 5 percent of US congressional seats and 4 percent of state legislature seats are held by Latinos. These disparities are most glaring on the local level, where Latino representation is lacking in elected leadership and in government appointed positions. In addition to being under-represented in elected and appointed leadership positions, Latinos also exhibit low participation in the civic process. In Massachusetts, for example, only 42% of Latino voters eligible to vote are registered. Increasing Latino political participation rates today will have deep impact for the future generation, and for this reason intentional interventions are necessary.

Given the gross under-representation of Latinos in civic leadership roles of impact, a more holistic approach, beyond just voter engagement is needed. Civic education, organizing, and advocacy, for example, can give Latinos meaningful participation that may lead them to vote, pursue electoral politics, seek appointment to City and State Boards or Commissions or seek other leadership opportunities within their communities, states or even at a national level.

Amplify Latinx is a vehicle to accelerate power building, civic engagement, and socially impactful leadership within the MA Latino community.