National Association of Latina Leaders

Founding Chairwoman's Letter
(November 2004)

Dear Latina:

Bienvenida to the National Association of Latina Leaders! You, the successful Latina, belong to the fastest, most vibrant segment of the United States population - and that is truly exciting!

From politics to the sciences, from the arts to the economy, Latinas are achieving great success. We are not just pioneers; we are at the decision-making tables throughout our nation. From El Cajon, Calif. to Wall Street in New York, Latinas are impacting all aspects of our society.

And, yet, while the accomplishment of so many individual Latinas are breathtaking, the challenges facing us as a community are just as staggering. And needless to say, while we are playing increasingly significant roles in all fields, all too often we are continued to be portrayed as maids, seamstress, and/or waitresses in Hollywood. The number of Latinas serving on corporate boards is precariously insignificant and we have yet to reach pay parity with non-Hispanic women, let alone with men.

That is why NALL has been created. We are the forum and the bully pulpit. We will raise the questions and provide the answers on behalf of Latinas. NALL is the voice of each and every Latina who wants to be counted. We will not stand quiet while we are either ignored or taken for granted. We will help the ones that need help and more importantly provide hope to the young Latinas. The future of our country rests on the quality of its leaders. It is our mission to see that Latina leaders take their rightful place in our world.

With your support, our mission is accomplished. Welcome, hermana.

All my best,

Rosario Marin
2004 NALL Chairwoman
41st Treasurer of the United States