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ICYMI: The LIBRE Initiative Brings Miami Community Members and Congressman Díaz-Balart Together for Capitol Connect
October 20, 2026
On Friday, October 16, The LIBRE Initiative hosted a Capitol Connect event in Miami Lakes, Florida, in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. The event brought together community members and Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart to recognize the important role Latino Americans play in South Florida and create opportunities for meaningful conversations about the issues shaping their communities and their futures.
As one of the country’s major Latino population centers, Miami is home to a vibrant and diverse Hispanic community whose contributions are essential to the region’s economic and civic life. The event highlighted the importance of ensuring Latino families have opportunities to share their perspectives with elected officials, particularly on issues such as economic opportunity, affordability, and the ability to achieve the American Dream.
Congressman Díaz-Balart joined the event for a fireside chat co-hosted by Helder Toste, Federal Affairs Liaison, Executive Director of The LIBRE Initiative, who also delivered the keynote welcome remarks. The conversation offered an opportunity to discuss the priorities of Latino families and the importance of listening to community members as policymakers consider solutions that affect their everyday lives.
Through its Capitol Connect events, The LIBRE Initiative continues to bring community members and elected leaders together to encourage dialogue, elevate local perspectives, and advance conversations about policies that can expand economic opportunity and help more Hispanic Americans pursue the American Dream.
Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart, issued the following statement:
“This event was a great close of Hispanic Heritage Month. I’m proud to stand alongside The LIBRE Initiative in fighting to lower the cost of living, protect small businesses, and keep the American Dream within reach for every family. Many in our community know firsthand the devastating consequences of socialism. We cannot afford to repeat those mistakes here in America.”
Sandra Benitez, Executive Director of The LIBRE Initiative, issued the following statement:
“Miami’s Latino community is an essential part of South Florida’s identity and economic future. As families work to build better lives for themselves and their children, conversations about affordability, economic opportunity, and the American Dream matter more than ever. Capitol Connect creates an opportunity to bring community members and elected leaders together, ensure Latino voices are heard, and encourage meaningful dialogue about the issues that matter most to families across the region.”