A group of eight students, faculty and staff from Newman University took an active role in civic engagement in March by attending the All Latinos Day at the Kansas State Capitol.
The event, designed to celebrate Latino leadership and participation in policy-making, provided students with an up-close view of government operations and the challenges facing Latino communities in Kansas.
The group’s day-long visit included committee hearings, opportunities to meet elected officials and guided tours of the Capitol — all aimed at increasing Latino representation in civic affairs. They also visited the Kansas Health Institute in Topeka.
Firsthand experience of the legislative process
Luis Piedra, a junior majoring in biochemistry with a pre-medicine concentration and active member of the Hispanic-American Leadership Organization (HALO) at Newman, was among the attendees. For Piedra, the trip was an eye-opening experience that reinforced his interest in politics and advocacy.
“I have always had a fascination with how government works, and I think it’s important for more Latino students to be exposed to the people who dictate the laws that govern their lives,” Piedra said. “Seeing Hispanic men and women standing up against unjust bills like SB178 and SB254 was encouraging.”
SB178 would require certain law enforcement agencies to enter into agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to implement federal immigration policies. Senate Bill 254 would restrict undocumented immigrants from receiving in-state tuition. Piedra and other students witnessed the hearing on the latter bill be unexpectedly postponed due to a lack of present representatives.
Piedra highlighted the stark realities of the legislative process, recalling a moment when he watched a Kansas House vote unfold.
“I got to watch how rude and unprofessional some of the representatives were — sitting back, on their phones, feet on desks — while Representative Kirk Haskins presented an amendment to HB2054. The amendment, aimed at restricting excessive campaign funding, would have lowered barriers for young people like us to enter government,” Piedra explained. “It was alarming to see a representative I personally know vote against it.”
The importance of Latino civic engagement
For Natalia Lopez, a junior from Wichita with roots in El Salvador, the experience reinforced the significance of Latino voices in policymaking.
“The event was eye-opening and showed how many people are unaware of what happens at the Capitol,” said Lopez, who serves as HALO’s secretary. “Seeing leaders and community members advocating for change made me realize that our involvement is more important than ever.”
One of Lopez’s most memorable moments was speaking with Rep. Ford Carr about an upcoming bill.
“He provided valuable advice on how to continue advocating for change,” Lopez said. “Later, when we spoke with Rep. Haskins, he told us, ‘No one should be afraid to come into their own house because this is your house, I’m just a caretaker.’ That really stuck with me.”
Legislative issues impacting Latino communities
“Many Latinos don’t see themselves in the political scene,” Piedra said. “Ignoring politics only harms you. Being informed doesn’t make you an activist, but it does make you active.”
Lopez echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of advocacy and awareness.
“Policies aren’t just abstract laws; they have real consequences,” Lopez said. “Regardless of whether a policy directly affects you, it’s crucial to stay informed and speak up.”
Inspiring future Latino leaders
As a leader in HALO, Lopez said the event inspired her to create more opportunities for students to engage in civic discussions and advocacy.
“Going to the Kansas Capitol reinforced why I’m involved in HALO,” Lopez said. “I want to use my role to help others understand how they can get involved and make a difference.”
Both students left the event with a renewed commitment to advocating for Latino representation and civic engagement.
“Latinos have a significant place in American society,” Piedra said. “If we get engaged in the system, we can change it to benefit everyone — but only if we start now.”
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