ICYMI: Albuquerque Hispanic Community Comes Together for LIBRE Initiative’s Capitol Connect

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The LIBRE Initiative brought together Hispanic families, community leaders, and state representatives in Albuquerque on Thursday, September 24, for its Hispanic Heritage Celebration and Capitol Connect, featuring New Mexico State Representative Rod Montoya and creating an opportunity for members of the Hispanic community to come together, celebrate their heritage, and discuss the issues impacting their families and communities.

Held during Hispanic Heritage Month, the event highlighted the rich culture and contributions of New Mexico’s Hispanic community while creating space for meaningful, community-driven conversations about the challenges families are facing—from the cost of living and the economy to education, housing, and other issues shaping their daily lives.

Rep. Nicole Chavez joined Hispanic families, community leaders, and attendees for the celebration, providing an opportunity for community members to connect with their elected representative and engage in conversations about the priorities and challenges facing New Mexico families.

The event featured food, drinks, entertainment, and remarks from state representatives and community leaders. Through Capitol Connect, attendees also had the opportunity to share their perspectives directly with policymakers and community advocates about the issues they want to see addressed.

Representative Nicole Chavez sharing what the American Dream means to her:

“The American Dream means that where you start in life doesn’t have to determine where you finish…The American Dream, to me means working your butt off to get to where you are and knowing that you belong at that table with everybody else.” 

Patricia Pinzon Sanchez, Mexican Consul in Albuquerque, said:

“Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month is not only about honoring where we come from -it is about recognizing the contributions we are making today and the future we are building together.”

Helder Toste, Federal Affairs Liaison with The LIBRE Initiative, said:

“This country is your country, and we want you to be part of the conversation – not just tonight, but to think about what you can do to make this country, your state and your community better.” 

Christie Martinez, Strategic Director with The LIBRE Initiative, said:

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the culture, traditions, and contributions that have shaped New Mexico and our country. But it is also an opportunity to listen to the families and communities who are building their lives here. Capitol Connect creates a space for those conversations—bringing people together to share their experiences, discuss the challenges they are facing, and make sure their voices are part of the conversation about New Mexico’s future.”

As Hispanic communities continue to grow across New Mexico, The LIBRE Initiative remains committed to meeting families where they are, listening to their priorities, and creating opportunities for community members to engage in conversations about the policies affecting their everyday lives.

The Albuquerque Capitol Connect is part of LIBRE’s broader effort to engage Hispanic communities through community events, educational opportunities, and grassroots conversations that connect families with resources and civic leaders.

About The LIBRE Initiative:

The LIBRE Initiative is a national organization focused on engaging and empowering Hispanic communities through education, community engagement, and policy discussions around economic opportunity, healthcare, education, and other issues affecting Latino families.