Latino advocacy group addresses worker rights, maternal health at Lansing event
Latino advocates gathered in Lansing to push for stronger worker protections and maternal health improvements amid federal immigration challenges.
LANSING, MICHIGAN — Members of Michigan’s Latino community gathered in downtown Lansing on Thursday to discuss policy initiatives aimed at strengthening civil rights protections and expanding political representation across the state.
MI Poder, a nonprofit organization focused on amplifying Latinx grassroots efforts and justice-driven policy change, hosted its fourth-annual Latino Legislative Advocacy Day in the basement of a church. The event drew participants seeking to address worker protections and Latina maternal health issues amid increased federal immigration enforcement.
“This is about more than just participation, it’s about real power,” said Cindy Gamboa, executive director of MI Poder. “Our communities are already engaged. What’s been missing is consistent investment and real accountability. Latino Legislative Advocacy Day is about closing that gap and making sure our voices don’t just show up, but that they also guide decisions.”
Focus on Worker Rights and Health Issues
The day’s programming included meetings with state legislators, panel discussions, and workshops examining ways to enhance both political power and community well-being for Latino residents. Participants emphasized worker protection measures and maternal health concerns as priority areas requiring legislative attention.
Organizers highlighted challenges facing Latino communities, including workplace abuse and mental health impacts stemming from federal immigration policies. The discussions centered on developing stronger protections for workers and creating pathways toward legal documentation.
Vilma Escamilla Duran, a doula and activist, led discussions about Latina maternal health issues during the advocacy sessions. The conversations addressed barriers to healthcare access and the need for culturally competent medical services.
Building Political Infrastructure
The advocacy day serves as a component of MI Poder’s Michigan Latino Voter Project, a statewide initiative designed to expand Latino civic participation and build sustained organizing infrastructure. The project aims to support Latino candidates and Latino-preferred candidates in achieving electoral success.
Event organizers stressed moving beyond basic participation toward meaningful political influence. The gathering provided a platform for community members to share personal stories while engaging with policymakers on specific legislative priorities.
The workshop format allowed participants to break into smaller groups focused on different policy areas. Attendees discussed strategies for advancing worker documentation pathways and strengthening protections against workplace abuse.
Addressing Community Challenges
Participants acknowledged the current challenges facing Latino communities, particularly regarding increased immigration enforcement at the federal level. These policies have created additional stress for workers and affected community mental health broadly.
The advocacy event emphasized the need for state-level responses to federal immigration policies that impact Michigan’s Latino population. Discussions included ways to protect workers from exploitation while supporting their contributions to the state’s economy.
MI Poder’s approach focuses on building long-term political power rather than temporary engagement. The organization works to ensure Latino voices influence policy decisions affecting their communities across Michigan.
The fourth annual event represents continued growth in Latino political organizing within the state. Participants left with specific action items for engaging with legislators on worker protection measures and maternal health improvements in the coming months.
