Event Details
We’re excited to be a part of the 15th annual Latino Unity Day happening May 7-8, 2025, in Springfield!
This powerful gathering brings together hundreds of Latino leaders, allies, and advocates to connect with policymakers, participate in important policy discussions, and build meaningful relationships across our communities.
This is a unique opportunity to amplify our collective voice at our state capital while celebrating the strength and resilience of Latinos in Illinois.
If you are a member of an advocacy organization, an association, a community-based organization, a state employee, a community leader or an individual that cares about Latino equity and civic engagement, Latino Unity Day is for you!
Visit latinounityday.com for more details regarding registration, hotel accommodations, agenda, and more.
On May 8th at 2:00pm, IAHSE will be part of the following panel discussion:
Latinx Representation in State Government Update
Panelists
Diane Casas
President
Illinois Association of Hispanic State Employees
Carlos R. Charneco
Chair
Hispanic Employment Plan Advisory Council
Isabella O. Hurtado
Director
Governor’s Office of New Americans
Moderator
Margarita Olmos
Policy Advisor
Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation
Session Description
More than 47,000 individuals make up the State’s workforce, Latinx account for 7.7% (3,621).
According to the Hispanic Employment Plan FY2024, there are approximately 210 Hispanics within management positions. Among the 3,621 Hispanics employed by the State, 6% of the Hispanic staff are in management position.
According to the Bilingual Needs & Bilingual Employment Plan FY2024, 2,028 State employees receive bilingual pay, of which 78.8% (1,598) were Spanish-speaking staff.
A total of 126,000 unique applicants were recorded (as of December 1st, 2024), with 10.84% (13.697) identifying as Hispanic/Latino.
Open discussion on the importance of increasing Latinx in state government as well as maintaining language access equity.