Released: June 25, 2024
Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor and Vice Chair Richard Womack were thrilled to participate in the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs (GACLA) 'Meet & Greet' held on Tuesday, June 25, at the Government Center Building in Media. The event, featuring GACLA Chair Rev. Bonnie Camarda, and Commissioners Emilio A. Buitrago and Jose Aguirre, provided a platform for discussing recent advocacy efforts and engaging directly with community members.
GACLA's mission is to gauge the experiences and needs of Latino Pennsylvanians, assess programs that impact the community, and advise Governor Josh Shapiro on relevant policies and legislation. The goal is to reflect the diversity of Pennsylvanians in state governance and ensure responsiveness to their needs.
Commissioner Buitrago outlined recent policy recommendations at the event, focusing on Affordable Childcare, Fair Housing, and Language Access. These proposals aim for significant funding increases for early childhood education and enhanced language services across state agencies, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity and support.
“These recommendations are more than policies; they serve as a blueprint for creating a more inclusive and equitable Pennsylvania where every community has the support it needs to thrive," said Chair Taylor. "We support the Commission’s efforts and look to the State legislature to enact these vital improvements.”
Thanks to GACLA's advocacy, these policy priorities have been integrated into Governor Shapiro’s proposed budget, illustrating the commission’s pivotal role in shaping state policy.
About GACLA
Established in 1971 and recently re-established by Governor Shapiro in 2023, GACLA is dedicated to advising the governor on policies and legislation that impact Latino American communities in Pennsylvania.
For more details, please visit the Commonwealth of PA’s Newsroom page on the recent reestablishment of five Governor’s Advisory Commissions.