Policy, Advocacy, Leadership in Action Program (PALA) 

Background:

The lack of Latina representation in policy is a byproduct of historical oppression and a lack of education. We are seeking to change that narrative. We want to support community members while they advance the skills they need to both engage with their elected officials and have the confidence to run for office as well. L Our community is highly skilled, resilient and have demonstrated economic and policy influence in their own communities. Throughout the media, we often see narratives being written by those who do not have that lived experience. LCSV has been a consistent champion for our community, advocating for economic and policy parity. 

About the Program:

For the last 25 years we have been providing insight and civic engagement training to begin shifting the narrative around who is meant to be a decision maker in policy spaces. Our Policy Advocacy Leadership and Action Program (PALA) was born from the increased interest our community had in becoming more equipped advocates for their community. PALA is a 3 day boot camp, held twice a year in Winter and Spring, that focuses on various facets of policy advocacy:

• Identifying and engaging with elected officials 

• Running for office 

• Understanding the different levels of government 

• Engaging with media as a advocate 

• Learning foundational principles of policy organizing 

• Advocating for yourself and others 

• Exploring various pathways to civic engagement 

• Collaborating through multi-ethnic coalition building 

• Participating in civic boards and commissions 

We are already aware of the various issues that need to be prioritized within their communities and through these programs Latinas will gain the tools, confidence and network to engage in advocacy work at a policy level and impact their communities.