WHEREAS, The US Latino population is the largest and fastest growing minority group in the United States, representing 14% of the overall population and projected to account for up to 25% in 2050.

WHEREAS, Latino children represent the second largest group of students in the nation’s schools, yet currently more than one-fourth (27.3%) of Latinos have less than a 9th grade education and only 1 in 10 Latinos (10.6%) currently have a college degree.

WHEREAS, The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) serves as a clearinghouse for educational programs, services and information to provide Latino youth with the tools and resources to attain higher levels of education, opening the doors of opportunity for Latinos to grow and realize their full potential, including becoming effective leaders

WHEREAS, The fellowships and internships provided and facilitated by CHCI combine professional experience in the Nation’s Capital, including leadership development workshops and training, exclusive meetings with national leaders, policy briefings, and community service projects.

WHEREAS, CHCI programs foster leadership and prepare youth to become leaders and decision-makers in our society and increase Hispanic representation at senior leadership and management levels in the private, public, profit and nonprofit sectors.

WHEREAS, CHCI’s eight week summer internship program for Latino college students provides hands-on experience, job placements in Congressional offices; and

WHEREAS, CHCI’s nine month fellowship program for recent college graduates provides young Latinos with unparalleled hands-on experience in policy-related jobs and positions in federal agencies, non-profits and the private sector.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that USCM applauds the work of CHCI in opening the doors of opportunity and providing invaluable development for Latino youth.