tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44411483024858504902024-03-21T04:17:38.780-07:00LEAPLEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.comBlogger47125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-24583025936433091182012-06-20T14:25:00.001-07:002012-06-20T14:27:48.833-07:00President Obama takes action to enable young immigrants without legal papers to live and work in U.S. without fear of deportationOn June 15, 2012, United States President Barack announced that “effective immediately,” young immigrants who came to the United States, but without legal papers, may remain in the U.S. without fear of deportation. <br />
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President Obama ordered the Office of Homeland Security to grant “deferred action” to those who meet certain criteria (see below). It will be at least 60 days (mid-August, 2012) before applications for “deferred action” are available.<br />
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President Obama’s order comes after the United States Congress last year failed to change immigration laws that would allow these same young people to remain in the country without fear of deportation. <br />
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As President Obama said, “This does not grant citizenship; it does not grant amnesty. But, it is the right thing to do.” <br />
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U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, Janet Napolitano, said, “Certain young people who were brought to the United States as young children, do not present a risk to national security or public safety, and meet several key criteria will be considered for relief from removal from the country ... <br />
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“Our nation’s immigration laws must be enforced in a firm and sensible manner,” said Napolitano. “But they are not designed to be blindly enforced without consideration given to the individual circumstances of each case.”<br />
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Said Rogelio Riojas, President and CEO of Sea Mar Community Health Centers, “Ultimately, the President’s action is aimed at young people who have been educated most of their lives in the United States, and who consider the U.S. their home. I am certain the President has come face-to-face with some of them. He understands both the tragedy and the sheer stupidity of turning our backs on bright young scholars who can contribute greatly to our economy and to the social fabric of our state and nation. I applaud him for his compassion, vision, and courage.” <br />
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Under the President’s order, those who apply and who are granted “deferred action” will be allowed to work and to remain in the U.S. for two years without fear of deportation. They will be permitted to re-apply for “deferred action” every two years. <br />
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Individuals who demonstrate that they meet the following criteria will be eligible for “deferred action” on a case-by-case basis:<br />
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<li>Came to the United States under the age of sixteen;</li>
<li>Have continuously resided in the United States for a least five years and, were in the United States at the time of the President’s announcement on June 15, 2012; </li>
<li>Are currently in school, have graduated from high school, have obtained a general education development certificate, or are honorably discharged veterans of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States;</li>
<li>Have not been convicted of a felony offense, a significant misdemeanor offense, multiple misdemeanor offenses, and do not pose a threat to national security;</li>
<li>Are not above the age of thirty.</li>
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Important: </h4>
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Only those individuals who can prove they meet these criteria will be eligible for deferred action. <br />
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“Deferred action” requests will be decided on a case-by-case basis and there is no guarantee that all requests will be granted. <br />
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Individuals who are in removal proceedings and have already been identified as meeting the eligibility criteria by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may qualify for “deferred action” for a period of two years, subject to renewal. <br />
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TO GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT “DEFERRED ACTION” REQUESTS</h3>
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Individuals seeking more information on the new policy should visit <a href="http://www.uscis.gov/" target="_blank">USCIS’s website</a>, <a href="http://www.ice.gov/" target="_blank">ICE’s website</a>, or <a href="http://www.dhs.gov/" target="_blank">DHS’s website</a>. <br />
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Beginning Monday, June 18, 2012, individuals can also call USCIS’ hotline at 1-800-375-5283 or ICE’s hotline at 1-888-351-4024 during business hours with questions or to request more information on the forthcoming process.<br />
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In Washington State, information may be obtained at the Northwest Immigration Rights Project, <a href="http://www.nwirp.org/">http://www.nwirp.org/</a><br />
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</div>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-29593048450700664892011-10-05T08:38:00.000-07:002011-10-05T08:38:06.189-07:00Scholarship for single parentsRecently, we were approched about advertising a new scholarship on our blog. As we read the criteria and benefits, thoughts went through our head such as - "no way" or "this is too good to be true." But sure enough, this is a great opportunity for parents who are trying to complete their education but through online courses.<br />
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Check out the <a href="http://www.onlinecolleges.org/scholarshp">Online Colleges.org Support a Student Scholarship for Single Parents</a> for a $10,000 scholarship! It is open to "any single parent enrolled in a degree program with a significant online component."<br />
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We are unsure if this is open to HB 1079 students. One requirement is that students should be receiving some sort of financial aid but it does not specify if this means private scholarships.<br />
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<a href="http://www.onlinecolleges.org/scholarship">http://www.onlinecolleges.org/scholarship</a>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-70627563200121580392011-07-19T15:25:00.000-07:002011-07-19T16:05:03.369-07:00CWU Urges Congressional Support for DREAM Act<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><img alt="" border="0" height="133" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631194103731475922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaepke97pFST8on5VcarGTIyuuonickwhGcxIUwNJ_Kbuy0yj_vUteYjupjtH7Qic6m5m8Eb3O1T2p6YILb7y5SNnfTyL66I4e1JXC2I3w9Ek5A-I7h57bjQH_GMLtyLeRY05w6LQDWXk/s200/2010CWUgraduate.jpg" style="display: block; height: 133px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" width="200" /><strong>June 2, 2011</strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">Written by Zuri Cambron</span><br />
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Central Washington University President James L. Gaudino and Board of Trustees Chairman Sid Morrison signed a resolution on June 2, 2011 to the Washington State congressional delegation in support of the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act (DREAM Act).<br />
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In conjunction with the resolution, Dr. Gaudino and Dr. Morrison wrote a letter to Senator Maria Cantwell expressing the urgency to pass the DREAM Act. They ask Senator Cantwell to continue to support the DREAM Act and extended an invitation to Cantwell to the signing ceremony. Cantwell was unable to join but she expressed her continuous support of this cause. Cantwell has been an original co-sponsor of this bill since 2001. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9A970qJe0whTOQlFbyaYZZEyNTE33r4Qgfg6OxgK74FCIkIY2zwZJNDwfY8wQttH7QLnCDK9K36ruRWMY07dhimeHHTu7_ICHjx2jgaM5O9UWZ7xJSxmchAGOCC7ZI49ZwhXpQWC52s/s1600/CWUPresidentGaudino.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631194511042934514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9A970qJe0whTOQlFbyaYZZEyNTE33r4Qgfg6OxgK74FCIkIY2zwZJNDwfY8wQttH7QLnCDK9K36ruRWMY07dhimeHHTu7_ICHjx2jgaM5O9UWZ7xJSxmchAGOCC7ZI49ZwhXpQWC52s/s200/CWUPresidentGaudino.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 120px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 81px;" /></a>“The DREAM Act recognizes what is already reality: the children of immigrants are as American as you or I," declared Gaudino. "The truth is that these young people live and work in our communities. They are members of our churches and schools. They are friends, neighbors, and family, and we want them to know that they are welcome at CWU."<br />
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The DREAM Act passed the House of Representatives but unfortunately, failed to pass the Senate. But the fight continues on. This year Illinois Senator Dick Durbin reintroduced the bill on May 2011.<br />
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Don’t give up amigos/as we need people like you to organize and advocate for equality and human rights. Let’s continue to work hard. It will take continuous commitment but we will ultimately succeed. Like people say we might have lost a battle but not the war. If we continue to work together along with other communities around the nation we can work to advance the DREAM Act. Let this year be the year. Encourage others to be part of this movement; professors, neighbor’s, family and friends, members of our community, and most of all call your congressional senators to take part of this important cause. Take the CWU example and see how one community can work together.<br />
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The Latino/a Educational Achievement Project (LEAP) of Washington state will continue to work with the United States Congress to pass the DREAM Act. LEAP is committed to developing educational policies directed to achieve higher education. One of the most important workshops in the LEAP annual conference in February is to advocate for the DREAM Act. We ask students to participate in such workshops and to bring new ideas. Have any ideas? Don’t hesitate to share these ideas with others or post them on this site. Together we can bring change. Si se puede y adelante con la educación!<br />
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Generate your ideas here or any other web site that advocates for the DREAM Act, don’t limit yourself. For more information or for ideas, please visit the following websites to get connected to other activist around the nation.<br />
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<a href="http://www.dreamact.com/">http://www.dreamact.com/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.dreamact.info/">http://www.dreamact.info/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.unitedwedream.org/">http://www.unitedwedream.org/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.action.dreamactivist.org/">http://www.action.dreamactivist.org/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.change.org/">http://www.change.org/</a><br />
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Thank you, Dr. James L. Gaudino and Dr. Sid Morrison from CWU for all of your support. Other sincere thanks go to U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray who have continued to be supporters of the DREAM Act since the beginning. Additional thanks to Senator Durbin who reintroduced the DREAM Act and to everyone else who continues to fight for this cause.</div><br />
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<em>Zuri Cambron is currently a communication major at Eastern Washington University. She has been interning at Sea Mar Community Health Centers in its communication and accounting department. She considers herself a DREAM Act activist and is excited to graduate with her BA at the end of July.</em></div>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-28733934959470352222011-03-14T12:06:00.000-07:002011-03-14T12:32:26.165-07:00Scholarship that go untouchedAs a student, I used to wonder why people would say there are scholarships that no one applies to and I would think, "which ones because I have been searching everywhere!" But now that I work in an office that administers a scholarship, I am amazing at the limited number of applications that are submitted. Not only that, but I am shocked at how many forget to follow directions. While scholarships are difficult to find and sometimes have confusing directions, let me help you out with a few. <a href="http://www.seamar.org">Sea Mar Community Health Centers</a> is currently accepting scholarship applications for their <a href="http://www.seamar.org/about/news.htm">Farm Worker Scholarship</a>. The deadline is coming up quick - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday, March 25</span>! I am told that there are not that many applications this year which is a shame since this scholarship is awarding $1000 scholarships to high school seniors and college students who were either farm workers or have grown up in a farm worker household. This is open to all students, regardless of legal status and it is also open to students with high and low G.P.A.<br /><br />If you already heard about the Sea Mar scholarship, head over to <a href="http://theWashBoard.org">theWashBoard.org</a> where they have a large database of scholarships for Washington State students. You create a profile and they will match scholarships to your information.<br /><br />Recently we learned about the <span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://lideres.nclr.org/section/opportunities/bestbuyscholarship1">2011 NCLR Best Buy Emerging Latino Leaders Scholarship Program</a>, which is awarding a $15,000 scholarship! It is a national scholarship so start working on it now since it is going to be very competitive.<br /><br />So be on the look out for scholarships, follow directions, make sure you answer the questions your essay/personal statement and more importantly TURN IT IN ON TIME :)<br /><br />Good luck!<br />LEAP<br /></span>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-60993416237247073502011-02-25T10:19:00.000-08:002011-02-28T08:54:06.934-08:00Summary of the 2010 LEAP ConferenceLast year we began drafting this article to serve as our annual newsletter. With the transition to Sea Mar we overlooked this. As we were thinking about the 2011 LEAP Conference and its current postponement, it got us thinking nostalgically at the 2010 LEAP Conference. We hope you enjoy this article and gets you excited for the conference coming up March 10-12.<br /><br />Enjoy,<br />LEAP<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2CX5vpAwHkbSQNzW7jHMv4d5D0kycZwWDvubSse7iY_Sji09fRgjBOJDytlC_vqfQecM8_O1dq4GaJEG3HLFXJkgGchlzpt9e_GKndDBisjse38_ZxwvhYJ9PQKUABwlvyjXyLEMPZY/s1600/leap+photo.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2CX5vpAwHkbSQNzW7jHMv4d5D0kycZwWDvubSse7iY_Sji09fRgjBOJDytlC_vqfQecM8_O1dq4GaJEG3HLFXJkgGchlzpt9e_GKndDBisjse38_ZxwvhYJ9PQKUABwlvyjXyLEMPZY/s320/leap+photo.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577703505954300946" border="0" /></a>More than 400 students and over 560 participants from around the state attended the 10th Annual Latino/a Educational Achievement Project (LEAP) Conference and Legislative Day held on February 18-20 in Tacoma and Olympia, Washington. Students and other attendees from all over Washington state arrived at the beautiful Hotel Murano in Tacoma, where they were welcomed by Colores Unidos, a dancing group from Edmonds School District.<br /><br />The conference opened strong with students chanting their school pride and walking around the ballroom in similar fashion to the Olympic Opening. LEAP Conference Coordinator, Bárbara Guzmán and LEAP intern, Luis Ortega welcomed conference participants. The 10th annual conference had a new feel and was focused primarily on the students. This was expressed by the conference theme of: Estudiantes unidos para un mejor futuro…ahora! (Students united for a better future…today!).<br /><br />As a preview for activities to come, a slide show presentation of el Chacal from Sabado Gigante, was shown.<br /><br />“Why go to college? Because a lot of us are fighting hard to change the law.” This was quoted from Dr. Roberto Gonzales, Assistant Professor of Social Work from the University of Washington, the first speaker of the conference. Dr. Gonzales was able to educate conference participants on the complex situation of undocumented students. He is regarded as a national expert on undocumented students based on his report, Young Lives on Hold: The College Dreams of Undocumented Students, for the College Board. While students listened, Dr. Gonzales spoke informally to students about the history of immigration and causes for the spike in unauthorized immigration. Dr. Gonzalez stated that, “immigration laws today do not match problems we have today in our community” and “demand for labor didn’t change [with globalization], what changed were our laws.”<br /><br />Dr. Gonzales shared the stories of students he has met, mentored and researched over18 years of work in Chicago, L.A. and Seattle. He spoke of his most notable example, a young woman who completed her Bachelor’s degree, studied to become a teacher, received her Masters, and within a few days of completing her first year of student teaching, received her permanent residence ID card in the mail. Dr. Gonzalez went on to ask, “…when that change [immigration status] comes, where do you want to be? Out of school and frustrated or in school and prepared?” Dr. Gonzalez uses these examples as motivation for students to stay committed to studying and pursuing their educational goals regardless of their immigration status.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghiLhEtLBnxm22EmG2Vb_wsmDzxcgwsCtkWiGtQrrPEPwoWVL7UZE95-M_iU5cmHUSqR6HZE5_-yRLJ_PTNIAHxAYvmD-5J8aNcYmH5GJb5vfTk8KY1E_S_fWa0t6ErAZKLZWxkoNTJRs/s1600/3boys.9248.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghiLhEtLBnxm22EmG2Vb_wsmDzxcgwsCtkWiGtQrrPEPwoWVL7UZE95-M_iU5cmHUSqR6HZE5_-yRLJ_PTNIAHxAYvmD-5J8aNcYmH5GJb5vfTk8KY1E_S_fWa0t6ErAZKLZWxkoNTJRs/s320/3boys.9248.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577703785157831010" border="0" /></a>There were many workshops this year for participants to choose from, topics ranging from media as a career and to using one’s Latino background as a resource, to leadership development, and information for parents on how to support their 1079 students.<br /><br />Students returned to the main ballroom to participate in Yuppady, a Jeopardy style game covering basic government questions. With hilarious results, students proved to be excellent contestants and proved Yuppady may just be too easy. This was great news to LEAP as it shows more and more students are becoming familiar with their state government.<br /><br />Later in the afternoon, conference participants were oriented on Legislative Day, a day where conference participants meet with their state legislative representatives to advocate for improved educational policies. Ricardo Sánchez, LEAP Founder and current Chair of the Board, told students it was okay not to be familiar with their state or congressional representatives, because “many people do not know, [and] that is expected!” Sanchez wanted students not to feel intimidated by the process but to take advantage of the learning opportunities at Legislative Day.<br /><br />Each year, LEAP and its Advisory Board, establishes educational policy priorities which LEAP advocates for at its Legislative Day event. This year, LEAP chose to focus on Senate Bill 6778, an alternative route to high school graduation. As it stands, our state requires that high school students earn 24 credits to graduate from high school, but our state universities and colleges only require a minimum of 15 credits. LEAP has recommended the state provide an additional opportunity for students to pursue an alternative route to graduation. SB 6778 would give students, who earn at least 15 credits with a 3.0 GPA or above, to graduate from high school. Sánchez stated that, “if this bill passes, it would gives students a chance to graduate from high school and go to college…and it would decreases high school drop-out rates.”<br /><br />Without the convenience of time, participants were given a quick introduction to SB 6778 and Legislative Day. Even if the students did not feel well prepared, they were all excited to go to Olympia the following day. It was LEAP’s main intention to begin a discussion about this topic and welcomed a healthy debate.<br /><br />During the dinner program, conference attendees had the opportunity to hear from their peers. A diverse set of students served on a panel describing their leadership experiences. This panel included: Melissa Holguin Pineda, a middle school student from Vancouver School of Arts and Academics; Manuel García, a senior from Mount Vernon High School; Maria Vallejo a student at Seattle Central Community College; and Elizabeth Hernandez, from Washington State University. Hernandez told students, “un mejor futuro ahora no mañana,” they should advocate for a better future today not tomorrow. The student panel’s main message for students was: college should be for those people who make the effort to go to college.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6So3e5c_PWfCvDgY6uLyAm8BPGygX3RE4vrNm4iWsSAVJR1-91cit_ok3JKE3h3eyLWd8Ywifwj3o4gh8864QdRZiejz8oYVEuaSTfPMU707G9Z96RXrHEYQOcoVXMWRFh1NoOypdbo/s1600/panel.9168.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 237px; height: 158px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6So3e5c_PWfCvDgY6uLyAm8BPGygX3RE4vrNm4iWsSAVJR1-91cit_ok3JKE3h3eyLWd8Ywifwj3o4gh8864QdRZiejz8oYVEuaSTfPMU707G9Z96RXrHEYQOcoVXMWRFh1NoOypdbo/s200/panel.9168.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577699733796088946" border="0" /></a><br />Dr. Alejandra Rincón, National Director of University Alliances at the Hispanic Scholarship Fund and author of Undocumented Immigrants and Higher Education, was the key note speaker for Thursday evening. Dr. Rincón provided a compelling look into the DREAM Act, a federal bill that would provide undocumented students with permanent residency if they have lived in the United States:<br />• before they were 16 years old,<br />• for 5 years and,<br />• have graduated from a U.S. high school.<br />If within 6 years, these individuals either complete 2 years of a college education or a US military term, they will receive permanent residency.<br /><br />If the DREAM Act passes, Dr. Rincón predicts around 300,000 people would benefit. But Dr. Rincón noted it has been 10 years since the DREAM Act has been introduced into U.S. Congress. She asks: do they [US government] want us here…yes, do they want cheap labor…yes. Do they want us to go to college…no. Why are we good enough to work but not good enough to go to school?<br /><br />Dr. Rincón further explains, even though the Dream Act has not passed yet, it has brought positive outcomes. Undocumented students are now united and students are coming out from the shadows empowered. Her examples included three national cases of undocumented students who fought back as they were given deportation notices and have spoken out about the DREAM Act. Another positive, Dr. Rincon explains, is while it took California 15 years to grant in-state tuition to undocumented students (AB 540), it only took Washington state 2 years (HB 1079).<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSwn_X6g1gn94CvZ9Uf-1A3BDFodkafAV_po9IxzzXm413CSoNDQ-4PMp0nYMpA9-YeUnxHJkZUlol7SWaRVtWPejBt5E3a4wx6JxI9NNs70zlEYobUmrUsX4GLOVTurhyphenhyphenkDb163rLDck/s1600/alejandra.9184.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 232px; height: 168px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSwn_X6g1gn94CvZ9Uf-1A3BDFodkafAV_po9IxzzXm413CSoNDQ-4PMp0nYMpA9-YeUnxHJkZUlol7SWaRVtWPejBt5E3a4wx6JxI9NNs70zlEYobUmrUsX4GLOVTurhyphenhyphenkDb163rLDck/s400/alejandra.9184.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577700163000939506" border="0" /></a><br />Dr. Rincón continued by discussing the unintentional harm advocates of the DREAM Act commit by using particular comments such as suggesting that students are being penalized because of their parent’s actions or the idea that we must educate undocumented students or they can become criminals and also focusing on just high achieving students. She asks, “what about the one who got pregnant? What about the one with a GED?”<br /><br />After Dr. Rincón’s address, LEAP dedicated the rest of the evening to parents by recognizin their sacrifices and support they have provided over the years. A slideshow of photos and quotes from state Latino leaders was shown to emphasizing how their parents have and continue to influence them. The slideshow was intended for the younger generation to recognize parents are still influential, no matter your age or position. Frances E. Contreras, Associate Professor for the College of Education at University of Washington submitted the following quote:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“My parents are my inspiration who provide me with unconditional love and support, during both life's challenges and successes. They have shown me through their example, that through hard work and by having integrity, you can accomplish great things while holding true to your ideals. They also modeled that you also have to stand for what you believe in, even if it means standing alone at times--to be a leader takes courage and character”.</span><br /><br />Following the slideshow, there was an open mike for conference participants to express their appreciation for their parents. Students jumped at the chance to honor their parents and recognize their support. In addition, each parent attending the conference was surprised with a small gift bag as a small token of appreciation.<br /><br />As the evening winded down, some of the conference participants chose to end their evenings early. For those who stayed, they were treated to the annual Noche Cultural, a time for students to use to showcase their talents. LEAP Volunteers developed an American Idol style skit with a few surprise contestants, such as la Chilindrina, to encourage students to participate. But the highlight of the evening was el Chacal, who came all the way from California to attend the conference. Students were excited to see this celebrity but not so much when he chose them as his “victims” on the dance floor.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVPR7QXTaP57welbiR4vRxNFzlg1JJaXnSn8GJlyQHfv9Ias5228KAJU0L3HznGMhQVrz3HdHaE9UxvDvK1UvD0tMmS-VscJQ0NV541Ux6CybF0xklCVDI7gJUAaqllE3iA9uTzomXqbY/s1600/chacal.9303.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 243px; height: 162px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVPR7QXTaP57welbiR4vRxNFzlg1JJaXnSn8GJlyQHfv9Ias5228KAJU0L3HznGMhQVrz3HdHaE9UxvDvK1UvD0tMmS-VscJQ0NV541Ux6CybF0xklCVDI7gJUAaqllE3iA9uTzomXqbY/s400/chacal.9303.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577700564352571666" border="0" /></a><br />Noche Cultural continued with students sharing their songwriting, singing, dancing, and acting abilities. But to everyone’s surprise, Ricardo Sánchez, Chairman of the Board for LEAP, proved to everyone age “ain’t nuthang” but a number with his rapping abilities, a real treat for everyone in attendance.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Friday February 19th</span><br /><br />The morning of Legislative Day started with warm bright sun instead of clouds and rain. Once at the capitol, many conference participants chose to attend the SB 6778 hearing, where a group of students from Pasco, Mount Vernon, and Federal Way testified for SB 6778. Many people testified in support of the bill, most notable was Israel Bellam on behalf of Dr. Lee Vargas from Kent School District and Ben Kodama from the Equitable Opportunity Caucus and Asian-Pacific Islander Think Tank. There were many recognizable opponents such as the Seattle Times and the Governor’s Office. None of this deterred the students, they were determined to testify because this bill affected students and little student input. The LEAP students wanted to fill the missing student voice in this discussion. Even Barbra Martin, who testified in support of SB 6778 said, “it could not have been better to have children here to testify…. this should be student centered.” As the students and participants testified, many referred to their peers. Raul Sital Jr testified:<br /><br />“…si se puede and you got to want it, especially for those who wake up at 5 am for a 12 hour day… seeing more than half of my class not going to graduate kills me…people speak different languages who are brilliant but can’t surpass [WASL] tests because they do not understand the English language well.”<br /><br />Christian Resgot said “this isn’t a step back… [we’re] only asking for 15 credits and a 3.0 GPA… this is what colleges look for…” One student testified that she has a 3.8 GPA and is taking AP classes but struggles with passing the WASL. Ofelia Rodriguez said “everyone is given tools to graduate… we need to give tools to those who struggle to graduate…”<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYFrHvymIEG6zbQHIJZ9uncsl2YNsc60t_JKl0wZS6hB_vvn7AfRSfGj0-4to1QqDam6VMha-aNdQlQ7RfJim-773ksqRvia7Zle5hTYoaYt_dF56w63y3UWnmP-CltZlr_zvv2UmYBuc/s1600/girls.hearing.9398.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 321px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYFrHvymIEG6zbQHIJZ9uncsl2YNsc60t_JKl0wZS6hB_vvn7AfRSfGj0-4to1QqDam6VMha-aNdQlQ7RfJim-773ksqRvia7Zle5hTYoaYt_dF56w63y3UWnmP-CltZlr_zvv2UmYBuc/s400/girls.hearing.9398.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577700752357248706" border="0" /></a><br />Ricardo Sanchez, founder of LEAP, testified:“We want to keep our standards and education high… we fail to see how students can graduate with all D’s – how will this help them? Don’t we want students to rather maintain a B average in high school? Students who graduate with 15 credits will also need to maintain a B average…”<br /><br />This was an impressionable experience for the students. One student from Pasco even boldly stated to the hearing committee members, “I want to be sitting next to you guys someday.” Everyone was impressed with the students and commented on their bravery to stand before the Senate Hearing Committee.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">(Note: SB 6778 passed in the Senate but did not move out of committee in the House.)</span><br /><br />The rest of Legislative Day went well with students having their questions answered by their legislator. Students from Global Connections High School, District 33, asked Representative Tina Orwall about SB 6778. She stated that she was skeptical and not sure if CORE 24 is the right direction.<br /><br />Lee Mendez from Wenatchee Valley College CAMP in District 12 asked Senator Linda Evans Parlett, how the governor could look at education and financial aid and cut its funding? Senator Evans-Parlett replied, “I can’t speak for the Governor but she has different priorities than mine.”<br /><br />Natalie Ruiz from Lynnwood High School in District 21 asked her Senator, Paull Shin, about SB 6778. Senator Shin let her know that he support the bill and stated, “it’s good for students who have ‘interruptions’ in their education.”<br /><br />As Legislative Day was coming to an end, students from Mount Vernon middle school said they had fun getting to know how legislation works and what it does. In addition, they said it was exciting [to meet their representative] but felt comfortable because he is the father of one of the teachers in their middle school. They even had the opportunity to ask him about any struggles he has experienced in his career.<br /><br />During lunch, Senator Rosemary McAuliffe from District 1 addressed conference participants and told them:<br /><br />“This is your state capital. It’s very important that some of you testified today. It is a very important bill. There has to be a different way for students to show that they have the skills and knowledge to graduate. It’s important for all of you to talk to your representatives and say pass the bill…”<br /><br />The 2010 LEAP Legislative Day proved to be successful in helping students understand and received first hand exposure at their state government. Students did a great job representing their schools, community and families, while playing a role in governmental decision making.<br /><br />Upon returning to the Hotel Murano, conference participants were welcomed with an Academic Showcase. The Academic Showcase exposed students to the type of research and work college and university departments engage in, with an emphasis on Latino faculty and student researchers. Representatives from Washington State University, Eastern Washington University, Central Washington University, and Highline Community College were on hand to discuss their research. Students learned about a solar go-cart created by the engineering department; how biomedical research can discover and cure a sexually transmitted disease; using research on the diversity of student populations for a career, and much more. College recruiters were also on hand to provide students with the specific details on attending their college or university.<br /><br />After the showcase, conference participants returned to the ballroom to listen to a student panel full of amazing leaders making big impacts in Washington state. Students included: Jorge Alonso Chehade, a recent University of Washington graduate; Ray Corona, a student at the University of Washington Bothell; Sinéad Baylón, a student at Green River Community College; and Maria García, a student at Brewster High School. The student panel shared advice and their experiences in their leadership roles.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR8ZlyHvrNpGVvwgNu2a8O2ZfWHRg7yQyJaHHVi02G9p8xIykDP5ekJXnk64rvFxlYI_C5fl9IOn51-dbbsmALLJPxHc8my05v-kL_XVE1jA4knieVfC20wrN2gwfc7Aa1QPS8H7k_nnY/s1600/girl.mic.9499.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR8ZlyHvrNpGVvwgNu2a8O2ZfWHRg7yQyJaHHVi02G9p8xIykDP5ekJXnk64rvFxlYI_C5fl9IOn51-dbbsmALLJPxHc8my05v-kL_XVE1jA4knieVfC20wrN2gwfc7Aa1QPS8H7k_nnY/s320/girl.mic.9499.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577702828309894658" border="0" /></a><br />Chehade, a student who was successful in halting his deportation said, “the best thing to do is unify different organizations and groups by finding a common ground. It’s a matter of sitting down and brainstorming and talking about them and find peace in order to unify…” Chehade further stated when he sees opportunities he takes them and always looks at the positive things in life. Corona told students, “we all need to help each other out and be mentors to one another.” Corona wanted students to understand, “that if you don’t have guidance, get a mentor, it is to your advantage.” Baylón provided some great advice and said, “we as college students need to reach out to our high schools because we are older…be a leader…empower your community, empower others to become leaders and if they fail don’t yell at them, help them.” Lastly, García who lost her family in a tragic accident emotionally said: “I learned the hard way that family is not eternal. You never know, one day you may not be able to do things for yourself. Sometimes life is extremely hard but we have to be positive and think of the good, because if you don’t, you’ll never be able to overcome the obstacles.” This was all great advice from some amazing students who showed, through their actions, were able to accomplish big goals.<br /><br />This year, LEAP introduced the idea of action planning, which gives students the opportunity to reflect on what they have learned at the conference and how they can continue this energy at home. Students were asked to develop a Live PowerPoint skit, to show their issue and, through their action plan, how they would improve this situation. One example was from Central Washington University who expressed the need for extended library hours so that students can have a space to study late at night.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwROdpo_PPsNnGqPYd19gM4ATgHa1qy-Fk-wU0kyUZZd0eLP_cnGaeTgceX34i-cHGJDEgXiomIe_U5FQ_vVI0xLN_nz5JXbCZFnx6MMyPoqSnG6hPrgta3CVSToae3Ms636n0W60qe-M/s1600/students.9590.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 178px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwROdpo_PPsNnGqPYd19gM4ATgHa1qy-Fk-wU0kyUZZd0eLP_cnGaeTgceX34i-cHGJDEgXiomIe_U5FQ_vVI0xLN_nz5JXbCZFnx6MMyPoqSnG6hPrgta3CVSToae3Ms636n0W60qe-M/s320/students.9590.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577703230333637810" border="0" /></a><br />After a quick break, conference participants returned to the ballroom for dinner. Key note speaker, Senator Paull Shin, spoke to students about his inspirational story. As a homeless child living in Korea during the Korean War, Shin had only one friend who always spoke of committing suicide. Shin pleaded to his friend not to consider such nonsense because he did not want to be alone. Not too long after, Shin saw his friend’s lifeless body on the nearby railroad tracks. Alone for some time, Shin later saw American tanks driving through town and a soldier just grabbed Shin’s arm and took him to their base. This is how Shin became an errand boy at this U.S. Base. One day Shin hid from the base because he was crying, when an American soldier found him and inquired about the tears, Shin angrily told him to leave him. But the soldier persisted telling a young Shin, that when his children cry, it hurts him inside. After some time, this soldier adopted a 16 year old Shin and Shin chose to take his adoptive father’s last name as his first name – Paull. When Shin came to the U.S. to live with his new family, he did not speak English. Shin’s father wanted him to go to school, but Shin had never gone to school either. His father took Shin to the local high school but Shin was rejected at the high school, middle school, and was told he was too old for elementary school. Instead of feeling defeated, Shin decided to obtain his GED and bought an English dictionary so he could memorize it. He would study for 13 hours a day and by the next day, would forget everything he learned. That is when Shin decided to study a page, burn it and place the ashes in water, so he could ingest as a way to embed them into his being. Of all the words in the dictionary, there was one word Shin refused to drink, and that was “impossible.” Instead he threw away the I-M so it could read as “possible.” This, Shin said, was a way to remind him no matter how hard, everyone should prosper because it is possible.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJUZlRpBrP5_SKmoULXeniQA9sF9MjA26oqpLbiexikjgFyhlqcQTNudtjpcfJ6BV5YSq-FiozkkyisC_Ymky-TiubfsV2LACUsDoIEY_HZoCWzTmAdqo24OClyJxt0Ror7vdpOspFAVE/s1600/paullshin.9524.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 317px; height: 211px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJUZlRpBrP5_SKmoULXeniQA9sF9MjA26oqpLbiexikjgFyhlqcQTNudtjpcfJ6BV5YSq-FiozkkyisC_Ymky-TiubfsV2LACUsDoIEY_HZoCWzTmAdqo24OClyJxt0Ror7vdpOspFAVE/s400/paullshin.9524.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577701277060662514" border="0" /></a><br />This lesson was evident when Shin decided to run for office as a Democrat in a Republican district. Shin was not sure how his legislative district would receive him, but because America had given him so much, Shin wanted to pay back by serving his country. Shin boldly decided to walk to every house in his district to introduce himself and ask for people’s support. One day, he arrived to a man’s home who decided to use a few unsavory words for Shin based on his race. Shin could have become angry, which he did, but he kept that anger to himself and chose instead to use this as an opportunity. He explained to the man of his experiences and how the words the man chose were not accurate. By the end of the conversation, this man welcomed Shin to his home, supported Shin’s run for office and continues to be a friend to Shin. Shin became the first person of color who was elected in the history of his district.<br /><br />Shin had much more to add about his personal story and many in the audience were moved to tears. Students were impressed by Shin’s humble words and lessons and were a highlight of the conference. We hope Shin will make an annual appearance to the LEAP Conference<br /><br />Following Shin’s amazing story, three previous LEAP Scholarship awardees, Sonia Ramirez, Jose Lopez and Osbaldo Hernandez, spoke to conference participants about their educational and leadership experiences after their award. This also proved to be very emotional and was a reminder of the struggles these students continue to face regardless of receiving a scholarship.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdB_SsMkdJQWyjyjIZg-Y1E4GR5jE2dLZgveyPRCR1eLuv92PNPliBg8B-XdJa2lFC7QLLyaboq39s3pMbGC3o-D2B_f-scC7Wmdfgk6jXXopSCdZA7hyWYFMhynQn5TYHcmHdHWs-eCc/s1600/noche.girls.9624.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdB_SsMkdJQWyjyjIZg-Y1E4GR5jE2dLZgveyPRCR1eLuv92PNPliBg8B-XdJa2lFC7QLLyaboq39s3pMbGC3o-D2B_f-scC7Wmdfgk6jXXopSCdZA7hyWYFMhynQn5TYHcmHdHWs-eCc/s320/noche.girls.9624.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577704370490032114" border="0" /></a>All in all, the 2010 LEAP Education Conference & Legislative Day proved to be one of the best yet. We appreciate everyone’s participation and hope to see many of them again in the future either at the 2011 LEAP Conference and/or as leaders in their communities and in Washington state. See you next year!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Luis Ortega Recipient of the Phyllis Gutierrez-Kenney Leadership Award</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzIRdLqCv-9WpDhGP4JJaJDdkS3nlI5X9WeB6xwuuh3Ccorkdktrh8EgHTIcL70ujrMrPVhvvAWSqI1ROPLLzw0itxRlm5Z9Mm0nq-8UqozwDZRCOJe2QmlSgEcV1C0VoXsWfdUuld53c/s1600/luis.award.9569.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzIRdLqCv-9WpDhGP4JJaJDdkS3nlI5X9WeB6xwuuh3Ccorkdktrh8EgHTIcL70ujrMrPVhvvAWSqI1ROPLLzw0itxRlm5Z9Mm0nq-8UqozwDZRCOJe2QmlSgEcV1C0VoXsWfdUuld53c/s320/luis.award.9569.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577701496336357106" border="0" /></a><br />The 5th Annual Rep. Phyllis Gutierrez-Kenney Leadership Award recipient went to Luis Ortega, a University of Washington student. Luis received a $5000 scholarship sponsored by State Farm Insurance.<br /><br />Luis is a senior at the University of Washington and he was born in Mexico City. Luis moved to the United States when he was 12. He too had many difficulties when he arrived in the U.S. but today, Luis is very active, advising Latino students all over Washington state and has volunteered and headed many educational forums. Luis is well respected by his peers and other leaders in the state based on his extensive and dedicated leadership work. He has gone on to co-found the Latino Student Union at UW and ALIANZA Student Coalition of Washington State. In accepting his award, Luis said “I face challenges with a smile on my face and before every adversity I stand tall.”<br /><br />Luis shared with everyone in attendance the poem his grandmother taught him when he went to her school in Mexico, and carries with him everyday:<br />Jembrando by Rafael Blanco<br />“Ay que luchar por todos los que no luchan<br />Ay que pedir por todos los que no implicarán<br />Ay que hacer que nos oigan los que no escuchan<br />Y ay que llorar por todos los que no lloran”<br /><br />A State Farm representative awarding Luis his scholarship, addressed State Farms beliefs in the importance of education stating that there is such value in continuing to learn and continuing development to get educated. They made clear to conference participants that this value of education makes a difference.<br /><br />Luis will be graduating this June with a Bachelor degree in Political Science and Business Congratulations Luis!LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-8720263413252771042011-02-10T17:50:00.000-08:002011-02-10T17:50:10.602-08:00Black Fraternity Comes Out in Force for Their Undocumented Brother - COLORLINES<a href="http://colorlines.com/archives/2011/01/black_fraternity_comes_out_in_force_for_their_undocumented_brother.html">Black Fraternity Comes Out in Force for Their Undocumented Brother - COLORLINES</a>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-5695265606938359562011-01-19T08:18:00.000-08:002011-01-19T08:26:36.715-08:00Two Thousand Ten: A Year to Remember<o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="country-region"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceType"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceName"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PersonName"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:swiss; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1073750139 0 0 159 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0in; margin-right:0in; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:#606420; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" >Two thousand ten has been quite the year. As it comes to an end, it is the perfect time to reflect on the work achieved throughout the year. The Latin@s Stand Up! Movement (LSU) from <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Global</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Connections</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">High School</st1:placetype></st1:place> did just that. In this moment of reflection one achievement stood out the most: The Fiestas Patrias Parade.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" ><span style=""> </span>The Fiestas Patrias Parade takes place each year to celebrate the independence of <st1:place st="on"><st1:country-region st="on">Mexico</st1:country-region></st1:place> and other Latin American countries. This year <st1:country-region st="on">Mexico</st1:country-region> celebrated its 200 years of independence from <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">Spain</st1:place></st1:country-region>. LSU joined the celebration by participating in the parade. It was their first participation in such event. With the help of all its members, LSU spent the entire summer gathering costumes, music, and plenty of energy. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" ><span style=""> </span>The Fiestas Patrias Parade took place September 18 in the <st1:placename st="on">South</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Park</st1:placetype> neighborhood of <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Seattle</st1:place></st1:city>. There were over 30 entries and LSU was proud to be one of them. LSU gathered 22 of its members, including community members and 3 of its co-founders. They decorated a truck with hand-made traditional flowers made of tissue paper, decorative paint, and a Mexican flag displayed on the hood of the truck. Most of the girls dressed in traditional outfits from head to toe. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" ><span style=""> </span><st1:personname st="on">Rafael Vazquez</st1:personname> and Jose Lopez, co-founders of LSU, join the celebration. Jose wore a traditional Mariachi suit: “I loved to be able to do my Mexican scream out loud and feel proud to wear a Mariachi outfit,” confessed Lopez. The group was fortunate enough to have LEAP’s very own Chacal join them. He blended right in with all the energy and enthusiasm he displayed. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" >This parade wasn’t just a Mexican celebration. People from other Latin American countries were present as well. “The 2010 parade in <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">South</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> was a great experience letting the Latino community show their spirit and represent for their culture!” said LSU member Araceli Esparza. Araceli is currently a junior at <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Global</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Connections</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">High School</st1:placetype></st1:place> and has dedicated the past two years to the Latin@s Stand Up! Movement.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" ><span style=""> </span>The parade commenced at the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placetype st="on">Sea</st1:placetype> <st1:placename st="on">Mar</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Community</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Health</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Center</st1:placetype></st1:place>. LSU demonstrated their spirit through music, yelling, silly string, and lots of treats for the spectators. It concluded at the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">South</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Park</st1:placetype> <st1:placetype st="on">Community Center</st1:placetype></st1:place> where everyone enjoyed live music, food, and plenty of sunshine. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" ><span style=""> </span>When it came time for the awards ceremony, it was LSU’s surprise to find out they were awarded the “Most Spirit Award”. This was LSU’s first year of participating in Fiestas Patrias Parade and they were amazed at how their hard work paid off. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" ><span style=""> </span>LSU member, Chuyita Tejeda, had been a spectator of this parade in past years. She now had the opportunity to know what it was like to be a part of it all. “The best experience I ever [had] at a parade,” said Tejeda. Chuyita is also a junior at <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Global</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Connections</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">High School</st1:placetype></st1:place> and shows great dedication to LSU.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" ><span style=""> </span>All of LSU’s members were excited about participating for the first time in the Fiestas Patrias Parade. They have even brainstorm ideas for next years’ parade. They want to return with the same, or more, enthusiasm as they did this year. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" >The year is coming to an end and with it comes the memories we most cherish. Those moments are what make the year worth remembering. Two thousand ten was indeed <i style="">the</i> year. We’ll just have to wait and see what 2011 has in store for LSU.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" ><br /></span></p><p style="font-style: italic;font-family:lucida grande;" class="MsoNormal" ><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" >Written by <st1:personname st="on">Gabriela Osorio</st1:personname>, co-founder of LSU, and currently a student at <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Highline</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Community College</st1:placetype></st1:place>.<span style=""> </span>She enjoys writing, reading, and spending time with her family.</span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:lucida grande;" class="MsoNormal" ><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%; font-style: italic;font-family:lucida grande;font-size:12;" >The Latin@s Stand Up! Movement (LSU) is a student-oriented club at <st1:placename st="on">Global</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Connections</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">High School</st1:placetype> in the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Highline</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">School District</st1:placetype></st1:place>. They are committed to improve the educational outcomes of their peers through leadership, advocacy, and cultural awareness.<span style=""> </span>LSU meets every Wednesday in Ms. Weseman’s room at 2:15 pm. All are welcomed to join. For more information, contact Gaby Osorio at </span><a style="font-style: italic;font-family:lucida grande;" href="mailto:g_osorio08@yahoo.com" ><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12;" >g_osorio08@yahoo.com</span></a><span style="line-height: 115%;font-family:";font-size:12;" > <o:p></o:p></span></p>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-82879342025856935762010-12-09T10:24:00.000-08:002010-12-09T10:28:29.124-08:00An update on the DREAM Act<o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PersonName"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:donotrelyoncss/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:#606420; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} span.EmailStyle16 {mso-style-type:personal; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Arial; mso-ascii-font-family:Arial; mso-hansi-font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:windowtext; font-weight:normal; font-style:normal;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >A message from LEAP’s Executive Director, Ricardo Sánchez:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Most of you are aware that there has been action this week in the U.S. Congress on the DREAM Act.<br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >The House approved its version of the DREAM Act. The Senate, just this morning, voted to table consideration, which means Senate leaders don’t have the necessary votes. But by delaying the vote, they may be able to change some of the “no” votes to “yea” votes. I suspect they are close to getting the necessary 60 votes that are needed before the actual bill can be voted on in the Senate.<br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >We want to believe that President Obama and Senate leaders are using all of their leverage and negotiating powers to get the votes in the Senate for the DREAM Act. We can be thankful that our two Senators, Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, are strong supporters and advocates. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >That’s the optimistic view. The alternate view is that the Senate delay means the bill is dead for this session. Stay optimistic—“It’s not over ‘til it’s over,” es el dicho.<br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >As to the House vote, all of the Democrats, with the exception of Brian Baird, 3<sup>rd</sup> District, voted yesterday in favor of the DREAM Act. Baird will not be in office next year because he did not run for re-election. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >None of the House Republicans voted for the DREAM Act. No votes were Doc Hastings, 4<sup>th</sup> District, and Dave Reichert, 8<sup>th</sup> District. Cathy McMorris Rogers, 5th District, did not vote.<br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >(We want to comment on the no votes, but we have decency laws… )</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Something you can do: <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >We have been asking our representatives to support the DREAM Act. If you are in one of the districts where your representative supported the DREAM Act, now is a good time to thank them. Please do this – it’s important that they know we appreciate their support:</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Jay Inslee, 1<sup>st</sup> District </span></span><a href="http://www.house.gov/inslee/contact/email.html">http://www.house.gov/inslee/contact/email.html</a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Rick Larsen, 2<sup>nd</sup> District </span></span><a href="mailto:Rick.Larsen@mail.house.gov">Rick.Larsen@mail.house.gov</a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Norm Dicks, 6<sup>th</sup> District </span></span><a href="http://www.house.gov/dicks/email.shtml">http://www.house.gov/dicks/email.shtml</a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Jim McDermott, 7<sup>th</sup> District </span></span><a href="http://www.house.gov/mcdermott/contact.shtml">http://www.house.gov/mcdermott/contact.shtml</a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Adam Smith, 9<sup>th</sup> District </span></span><a href="http://adamsmith.house.gov/contact">http://adamsmith.house.gov/contact</a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >And, thank our two Senators:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Patty Murray </span></span><a href="http://murray.senate.gov/email/index.cfm">murray.senate.gov/email/index.cfm</a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Maria Cantwell </span></span><a href="http://cantwell.senate.gov/contact/">cantwell.senate.gov/contact/</a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Finally, don’t give up; never give up. Adelante Siempre!<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Latino/a Educational Achievement Project<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><st1:personname st="on"><b><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><br /></span></span></b></st1:personname></p><p class="MsoNormal"><st1:personname st="on"><b><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Ricardo Sanchez</span></span></b></st1:personname><b><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" ><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >VP, Communications and Educational Services<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Sea Mar Community Health Centers<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >206.763.5277<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-48243595514523412822010-11-19T15:57:00.001-08:002010-11-19T16:01:52.773-08:00Get into the giving spirit and donate to Sea Mar's toy drive<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8V1O52FikLhWRDu7jQy0Tftu3c-NLEYB-qOeqY4q8l2QJ41ZeNcbqMoZ7wwlECOemSVsRJznYp87dHllDl3ihT8357JbDXQSnxMN2af6gQyf_w-bkxnRcp0se9Y5G4-HMGeHA-zwa2ek/s1600/ToyFlyerFINAL.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 309px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8V1O52FikLhWRDu7jQy0Tftu3c-NLEYB-qOeqY4q8l2QJ41ZeNcbqMoZ7wwlECOemSVsRJznYp87dHllDl3ihT8357JbDXQSnxMN2af6gQyf_w-bkxnRcp0se9Y5G4-HMGeHA-zwa2ek/s400/ToyFlyerFINAL.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541415107603046530" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Sea Mar Community Health Centers is asking for everyone's support for their annual toy drive. Please consider giving to many deserving families. Read below for more information.<br />LEAP<br /></span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >---------------------------------------<br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Nothing brings a community closer together than a smile to the faces of children and their families during the holiday season. For over 20 years, Sea Mar has been giving back to communities by hosting annual Christmas parties for its low-income pediatric patients throughout western <st1:place st="on"><st1:state st="on">Washington</st1:state></st1:place>. This annual celebration is one of our largest and highly anticipated events.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >This year <u>you</u> have an opportunity to give back directly to the patients you serve at Sea Mar. Your donation of a new unwrapped toy or children’s book will contribute to the holiday cheer of <u>over 10,000 low-income Sea Mar pediatric patients</u> in eight <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Washington</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">State</st1:placetype></st1:place> counties. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Please drop off your donation at any Sea Mar location between:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >November 19 through December 17<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Monday through Friday<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >8am to 5pm<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Drop off your donation at the front desk at any Sea Mar site. The receptionist will make sure your donation is given to the Clinic Manager.<o:p><br /></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >A portion of the costs for the holiday parties and donated toys is made possible through the fundraising efforts of Sea Mar’s annual summer golf tournament. The tournament raises funds for Sea Mar’s college scholarships, low-income housing, and holiday children’s parties. However, with your help and support, our staff at Sea Mar can give back and work together this year to secure a brighter holiday season for our children and communities.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="textexposedshow"><b><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;font-size:10;" >Please direct questions to Jennifer Marroquin at <a title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org blocked::mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org" href="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org"><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org blocked::mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org" style="color:black;"><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org blocked::mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org"><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org blocked::mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org"><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org" style="color:#000000;">j</span></span></span></span><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org blocked::mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org" style="color:black;"><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org blocked::mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org"><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org blocked::mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org"><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org" style="color:#000000;">ennifermarroquin@seamarchc.o</span></span></span></span><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org" style="color:black;"><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org" style="color:#000000;">r</span></span></a></span><a title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org blocked::mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org" href="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org"><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org blocked::mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org" style="color:black;"><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org blocked::mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org"><span title="mailto:jennifermarroquin@seamarchc.org" style="color:#000000;">g</span></span></span></a></span></b></span><b><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > or 206.788.3284.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-24980354013457875272010-11-16T11:41:00.000-08:002010-11-18T18:34:28.409-08:00Enter the LEAP YouTube Contest & Win!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj19DIglEK2FW1HUNfBSvFjfTrQ9A-Gzame8PBO5KIEx-CjLpOkzNIL1mk4Gd6PIa6Pa4ptH7Q78MAp4eWu9MIOOhcStDYVku3cj5KxKzrqpk1-hcWv1nFqdNRPgVeIlsJE_TO4sSk46Ts/s1600/YouTube+Contest+Flyer.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; WIDTH: 309px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540236117788867650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj19DIglEK2FW1HUNfBSvFjfTrQ9A-Gzame8PBO5KIEx-CjLpOkzNIL1mk4Gd6PIa6Pa4ptH7Q78MAp4eWu9MIOOhcStDYVku3cj5KxKzrqpk1-hcWv1nFqdNRPgVeIlsJE_TO4sSk46Ts/s400/YouTube+Contest+Flyer.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Are you an inspiring film maker and passionate about HB 1079*? Well now is your chance to use your skills to inspire and educate others on this topic!<br /><br />If you are a 7th to 12th grader or college student studying in Washington State, you are eligible to enter a video in the LEAP YouTube Video Contest, specifically answering the question - what's next for HB 1079 students. You can win a cash prize if you video is selected as the winner!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">For more details, email info@leapwa.org</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">*State law that allows undocumented students to pay in-state tuition at public colleges or universities in Washington State.</span>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-58915573284182596892010-10-20T15:03:00.001-07:002010-10-28T12:59:43.442-07:00Dont Vote Ad Causes Uproar<img style="WIDTH: 0px; HEIGHT: 0px; VISIBILITY: hidden" border="0" src="http://counters.gigya.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bHQ9MTI4NzYxMjA1MDczMiZwdD*xMjg3NjEyMjIzNTk5JnA9MTI1ODQxMSZkPUFCQ*5ld3NfU*ZQX*xvY2tlX*VtYmVkJm49Ymxv/Z2dlciZnPTImbz1iZWU5ZDFmNGU1M2M*MjM1OTg*MWZmY2VlNjQ5MGQwMCZvZj*w.gif" width="0" height="0" /><object id="ABCESNWID" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,124,0" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" width="344" height="278"><param name="_cx" value="9101"><param name="_cy" value="7355"><param name="FlashVars" value=""><param name="Movie" value="http://abcnews.go.com/assets/player/walt2.6/flash/SFP_Walt.swf"><param name="Src" value="http://abcnews.go.com/assets/player/walt2.6/flash/SFP_Walt.swf"><param name="WMode" value="Window"><param name="Play" value="-1"><param name="Loop" value="-1"><param name="Quality" value="High"><param name="SAlign" value=""><param name="Menu" value="-1"><param name="Base" value=""><param name="AllowScriptAccess" value="always"><param name="Scale" value="ShowAll"><param name="DeviceFont" value="0"><param name="EmbedMovie" value="0"><param name="BGColor" value=""><param name="SWRemote" value=""><param name="MovieData" value=""><param name="SeamlessTabbing" value="1"><param name="Profile" value="0"><param name="ProfileAddress" value=""><param name="ProfilePort" value="0"><param name="AllowNetworking" value="all"><param name="AllowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://abcnews.go.com/assets/player/walt2.6/flash/SFP_Walt.swf" quality="high" allowscriptaccess="always" allownetworking="all" allowfullscreen="true" pluginspage="http://www.adobe.com/shockwave/download/download.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" flashvars="configUrl=http://abcnews.go.com/video/sfp/embedPlayerConfig&configId=406732&clipId=11928389&showId=11927768&gig_lt=1287612050732&gig_pt=1287612223599&gig_g=2&gig_n=blogger" name="ABCESNWID" width="344" height="278"></embed></object><br /><br />Last week, a television ad by the organization, Latinos4Reform, was aired suggesting Latinos should not vote. This, Latinos4Reform suggests, would show our political strength. The organization afterward told the media they were encouraging people to not vote for the congressional leaders who have not held their promises, such as passing immigration reform.<br /><br />Regardless of whether this was true or not, the words "don't vote" should never be encouraged. The best way for all voices, including the Latino voice to be heard, is to vote.<br /><br />I'm voting, are you?LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-48150473899992431982010-09-21T09:38:00.000-07:002010-09-21T09:41:32.623-07:00Letter to the DREAM Movement<div> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">A email that was sent to LEAP in relation to the current movement of the DREAM Act.<br /></span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">September 20, 2010<o:p></o:p></span></span></p></div> <p><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: bold;">Greetings!</span></span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <h2 style="text-align: center;" align="center"><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:180%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 18pt;">LETTER TO THE DREAM MOVEMENT <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></h2> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">Introduction: We convey this letter from Raul Al-qaraz Ochoa, an ardent student activist of the DREAM ACT movement, who has given tirelessly of his time, his life, and has sacrificed much to fight for the rights of himself and others, and therefore, has the highest authority to express this view in relatiion to the current status of the DREAM ACT and the advocacy for its passage by the U.S. Congress. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">The Mexican American Political Association (MAPA) and the Hermandad Mexicana Latinoamericana have historically supported the DREAM ACT conditionally from the initial versions of the proposed legislation. We oppose war and militarism, but recognize that it is the right of option of anyone to serve in the military. We oppose that the ACT has as an option military service without also including community service as an option. We oppose that the ACT excludes financial assistance, such as CAL-GRANTS or similar other states' student grant programs, to help students in their venture into higher education. We oppose that the ACT does not permit the legalized DREAM students the opportunity to immigrate other family members after the initial years of qualification, however, we do support that these students would be able to immigrate themselves and obtain legal resident status. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">What many people seem to forget is that the initial versions of the DREAM ACT were truly an opportunity for literally millions of young people to legalize their status, avail themselves of the option of community service, and/or higher education, in order to legalize their status; and it included the opportunity to immigrate other family members; and it included access to financial aid. The most recent version has stripped the best clauses of the first and second versions of the proposed legislation. The current version is a bastardized clone of the best first version, and it was made even worst by the militarized connection to the legislation. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">However, one can argue that being connected to the defense budget is only a medium whereby this legislation can see the light of day. The sad reality, however, is that the Democrats (and that inlcudes President Obama) are a penny short, and an hour late and know that they do not have the votes in the Senate to make the DREAM a reality. But, with this failure they can point to the Republicans as the culprits while both parties slide into the mid-term elections. It is all about the Democrats attempting to hold on to the Latino electoral base without passing anything of substance in the way of immigration reform. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">I now cede the word to Brother Ochoa...... <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">National President<br />Mexican American Political Association (MAPA)<br /><st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">310 N. Soto Street</st1:address></st1:street><br /><st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Los Angeles</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">CA</st1:state> <st1:postalcode st="on">90033</st1:postalcode></st1:place><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <div style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal" align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;"> <hr align="center" size="2" width="100%"> </span></span></div> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">Letter to the DREAM Movement:<br />My Painful Withdrawal of Support for the DREAM Act <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">Septiembre 18, 2010 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">by Raúl Al-qaraz Ochoa <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">I have supported the DREAM Act, despite my critiques and concerns over the military service component. In fact, I was one of the arrestees at the sit-in at John McCain's office in <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Tucson</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">AZ</st1:state></st1:place>; an act of civil disobedience where four brave undocumented students risked deportation and put the DREAM Movement back in the national political stage. I made peace with my participation because I felt I was supporting the self-determination of a movement led by undocumented youth and I felt we could subvert the component that was to feed undocumented youth into the military pipeline if we developed a plan to support youth to the college pathway. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">First, let me say that I applaud and admire the tireless work you have all done for the past 10 years. Your commitment and dedication parallels giant student movements of the Civil Rights era. Your persistence in organizing even when the world turned their back on you is inspiring; your creativity in tactics, visuals and media strategy is amazing. Your movement gives hope to hundreds of students I have come across here in <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on">Arizona</st1:place></st1:state> and beyond. It is because of your grassroots efforts-not the politicians' nor the national Hispanic organizations'-that the Dream is still alive and has come this far. As an organizer with permanent resident status privilege, let me assert that your cause for access to college and path to legalization is just. No one can tell you that what you are fighting for is wrong. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">With that said, I want to share how I am deeply appalled and outraged at how <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on">Washington</st1:place></st1:state> politics are manipulating and co-opting the dream. I understand that some folks may say, "we just want the DREAM Act to pass regardless", but it is critical to examine the political context surrounding DREAM in its current state. It is disturbing to see how Democrats are attaching our community's dreams for education/legalization to a defense appropriations bill. This is grotesque in a number of ways: <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">1) Democrats are using the DREAM Act as a political stunt to appeal to Latino voters for the November elections because it is seen as "less" threatening than a broad immigration reform. The Democrats have the political will to recently unite and pass a border militarization bill in a matter of hours ($600 million!), yet they won't pass a broader immigration reform? And now they are up for the DREAM Act? I'm glad they feel the pressure of the Latino voting bloc, but they obviously do not care about our lives, they only seek to secure their seats in November-which by the way look very jeopardized if they don't move quickly to energize their "base". They are also seeking to secure the gay vote with the gradual repeal of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy as part of this same defense bill. All in all, insincere, token political gestures only serve to stall real justice. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">2) Democrats are telling me that if I support access to education for all my people, I must also support the <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">U.S.</st1:place></st1:country-region> war machine with $670 billion for the Pentagon? Does this mean I have to support the military occupation of <st1:country-region st="on">Iraq</st1:country-region> and <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">Afghanistan</st1:place></st1:country-region>? By supporting the DREAM Act, does this mean I automatically give a green light for <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">U.S.</st1:place></st1:country-region> forces to continue invading, killing and raping innocent people all over the world? This is really unfair. Here in <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on">Arizona</st1:place></st1:state> I struggle with a climate of fear and terror. Yet even though I am so far away, I hear the cries of Arab mothers who are losing their children in <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">U.S.</st1:place></st1:country-region> sponsored bombings and massacres. There's a knot in my throat because victims of <st1:country-region st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region> aggression abroad look just like us victims of <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">U.S.</st1:place></st1:country-region> aggression at home. This ugly and twisted political system is dividing us and coercing us into supporting the funding of more bloodshed and more destruction if we want the DREAM Act to pass. Does this mean that our dreams will rest upon the nightmares of people that suffer globally? Obviously, students that call their Senators are supporting their future NOT bloodshed abroad, but we have to be responsible to the larger political implications of this. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">3) Democrats are vilifying and criminalizing our parents. A really insulting argument prominently used for passing the DREAM Act that I keep hearing over and over is that because undocumented students "didn't choose to come to the <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">U.S.</st1:place></st1:country-region> to break the laws of this country" you shouldn't have to pay for the "sins" or "illegal behavior" of your parents. Are they serious?!? It is not okay to allow legislation to pass that will stand on and disrespect the struggle, sacrifice and dignity of our parents. What about blaming <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">U.S.</st1:place></st1:country-region> led capitalist and imperialist policies as the reasons that create our "refugee" populations. Our parents' struggle is not for sale. We must not fall for or feed into the rhetoric that criminalizes us or our parents. We all want justice, but is it true justice if we have to sell out our own family members along the way? <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">Again, I support this fight-it's part of a larger community struggle. It's personal to all of us. Passage of the DREAM Act would definitely be a step forward in the struggle for Migrant Justice. Yet the politicians in <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on">Washington</st1:place></st1:state> have hijacked this struggle from its original essence and turned dreams into ugly political nightmares. I refuse to be a part of anything that turns us into political pawns of dirty <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on">Washington</st1:place></st1:state> politics. I want my people to be "legalized" but at what cost? We all want it bad. I hear it. I've lived it. but I think it's a matter of how much we're willing to compromise in order to win victories or crumbs. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">This again proves how it is problematic to lobby the state and put all our efforts in legislation to pass. We should know that this political route is always filled with racism, opportunism, betrayals and nightmares. History repeats itself once again. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">So if I support the DREAM Act, does this mean I am okay with our people being used as political pawns? Does this mean that my hands will be smeared with the same bloodshed the <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">U.S.</st1:place></st1:country-region> spills all over the world? Does this mean I am okay with blaming my mother and my father for migrating "illegally" to the <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">U.S.</st1:place></st1:country-region>? Am I willing to surrender to all that in exchange for a benefit? Maybe it's easier for me to say that "I can" because I have papers, right? I'd like to think that it's because my political principles will not allow me to do so, regardless of my citizenship status or personal benefit at stake. Strong movements that achieve greater victories are those that stand in solidarity with all oppressed people of the world and never gain access to rights at the expense of other oppressed groups. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">I have come to a deeply painful decision: I can no longer in good political conscience support the DREAM Act because the essence of a beautiful dream has been detained by a colonial nightmare seeking to fund and fuel the U.S. empire machine. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">I am so sorry and so enraged that this larger political context has deferred those dreams of justice and equality that we all share. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">In tears, rage, love and sorrow, <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: black; font-size: 10pt;">-r <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-24993547380234753072010-09-20T12:22:00.000-07:002010-10-22T10:54:43.053-07:00SAVE THE DATE!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN0drFfNYN4QD59UaIebXSxIRt8UpyLhAzboEXOOS0gwkZC5IPZVrIAwvv8EbSH1Z8Cg_LqWhRD1Gs9DdfLuJAApekbpjvkRUqbYX-sqoUbQUxcp9kABactJdzplLUWT1AqQ17T-kitwA/s1600/students.listening.9465.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN0drFfNYN4QD59UaIebXSxIRt8UpyLhAzboEXOOS0gwkZC5IPZVrIAwvv8EbSH1Z8Cg_LqWhRD1Gs9DdfLuJAApekbpjvkRUqbYX-sqoUbQUxcp9kABactJdzplLUWT1AqQ17T-kitwA/s400/students.listening.9465.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519079230895513714" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >LEAP Education Conference & Legislative Day</span><br />February 24 - 26, 2011<br />Hotel Murano * Olympia<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-style: italic;">More information to follow</div>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-82939401516207801822010-07-28T11:15:00.000-07:002010-07-28T16:46:40.998-07:00Vote on the DREAM Act?There have been reports that Senate Majority Leaders Henry Reid is considering bring the DREAM Act to a vote, for more information follow the link below<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://blogs.ilw.com/gregsiskind/2010/07/reid-considering-dream-act-vote-before-election.html">http://blogs.ilw.com/gregsiskind/2010/07/reid-considering-dream-act-vote-before-election.html</a>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-3839217564071627822010-07-26T12:03:00.000-07:002010-07-26T14:16:48.766-07:00Chillin’, Grillin’, and ... Postsecondary Education?<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 153, 153); font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >Side Note: REMINDER! LSU is having a fundraiser at the Panda Express in Burien Saturday July 31st, all you have to do is order some food and part of the proceeds will go to LSU. If that isn't enough motivation for you, below is a great reason why we should support this group.</span><br /><br /><br />LSU has done it again. On Sunday May 30, 2010, Latin@s Stand Up! Movement, better known as LSU (Movimiento Latin@s Arriba, in Spanish) had their 4th Annual Barbecue.<br /><br />This group of Latino students from Global Connections High School in the Highline School District, was founded in 2006 by a couple of students after attending the LEAP Conference. “The LSU mission is to motivate Latin@ students to go for a higher education, prevent them from dropping out of high school, and college awareness. LSU also wishes to help the Latino community make good decisions and help increase their opportunity for a better life.”<br /><br />Every year, among hosting other events, LSU celebrates the end of the school year with a BBQ for the Latino families in the community. In the past, the focus had been Global Connection students and families. This year the word spread to other members of the community whose children would soon attend high school.<br /><br />“Me parece un muy buen grupo...me gustaría que mis hijas se involucraran en esto,” (“I think this is a very good group...I would like my daughters to get involved in this”), said a mother, whose daughters will soon attend high school.<br /><br />The BBQ was hosted at Angle Lake in the city of SeaTac. Students, parents, friends, and members of the community all enjoyed the delicious food and music. Even Global Connections’ teachers and Principal Rick Harwood joined the celebration. Among them was LSU advisor Jill Weseman, who, along with other teachers, including Jennifer Wittenberg and AJ Campanelli, has supported the club back when it was only an idea. "Over the past four years, the LSU has become a powerful force for positive change in our school and community. The annual Family BBQ has drawn in new members and engaged their families in the work. This year's BBQ was completely planned and facilitated by parents and students, and was the most successful and well-attended it has ever been--despite the rain!"<br /><br />As usual, the BBQ consisted of student-led workshops. In the past, the guest were divided into three groups and rotated to the different workshops. This year, due to the rain, the workshops were presented to the entire group of attendees.<br /><br />The first workshop was presented by Rafael Vasquez, Jose Lopez, and Gabriela Osorio; three of the founders of LSU. Their workshop was entitled “Más Allá Del Salón” (Beyond the Classroom). The workshop invited parents to share their educational experiences and reflect on what educational goals they had in the past and whether or not they achieved them. The presenters also talked about what students should expect in college and what impacts college life may have on a students’ culture and points of view.<br /><br />The second workshop was presented by Senior Yessica Perez. Yessica has been involved in LSU since the very beginning. She joined the group not long after it was created. She will be attending the University of Washington in Tacoma. Her workshop was about the DREAM Act. She had presented the same workshop in the 2010 LEAP Conference.<br /><br />The third and final workshop was presented by two LSU parent volunteers, Lorena Mendez and Martha Maldonado. They shared their experiences in working with LSU with a slide show of photographs. These photographs reflected the dedication LSU and parent volunteers have had throughout the school year.<br /><br />The Latin@s Stand Up! Movement had a successful BBQ this year. New faces from both the community and LSU itself brought about rewarding experiences. Nothing less was expected of them. Congratulations and hope next year’s BBQ is just as great.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"><span style="font-style: italic;">Brought to you by Gaby Osorio, LEAP Volunteer and Scholarship Recipient</span></span>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-26052988109039723892010-07-13T14:35:00.000-07:002010-07-13T14:45:18.372-07:00Drumming to the beat of Leadership & Education<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGIpDV2zVhBeQgdcEe8y-819rDgi_cAiUEA-xdjJEzQyXgfypNdiuY_lbqwLFHeDQ8pNtKgy2zcxtGicrnMX2hSp2367vFu27zL0UXc1fqBzQZkum-b9veV7ir1U9bke6piSBzjSONA-g/s1600/Eddie.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 148px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGIpDV2zVhBeQgdcEe8y-819rDgi_cAiUEA-xdjJEzQyXgfypNdiuY_lbqwLFHeDQ8pNtKgy2zcxtGicrnMX2hSp2367vFu27zL0UXc1fqBzQZkum-b9veV7ir1U9bke6piSBzjSONA-g/s200/Eddie.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493508103038595906" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Edward Alfonso Esparza </span>
<br />In Vancouver, WA a mentor for Latinos leads our youth into a path of creativity, passion, and leadership. One of his programs is well recognized. This program is a mixture of empowering the Latino youth as well as using music as means of personal expression. It is none other than One of a Kind Drumline!
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What e</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">xactly is the program?</span>
<br />One of a Kind Drumline is about leadership through performance which consists of several kids that range from Kindergarten to twelfth grade. Kids learn that the drum is a part of them and can be used to reach success.
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<br />It is important act upon good citizenship. To emphasis this, the group does community service. They plant trees and clean around the community.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRshLmXJQrlxltNtbGsrW-_v8u14mor8wQ9ygtscxCiEhaz9gXVgtQUqEf2i2srYLa5rsXc1MYuELxj-6K5izVa-10ITeptiKYkNb7f5RL9p6SSzP7n3wZu-UvTtl6HyAG7OD9bn5PhJA/s1600/start+of+one+of+a+kind+drumline.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 143px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRshLmXJQrlxltNtbGsrW-_v8u14mor8wQ9ygtscxCiEhaz9gXVgtQUqEf2i2srYLa5rsXc1MYuELxj-6K5izVa-10ITeptiKYkNb7f5RL9p6SSzP7n3wZu-UvTtl6HyAG7OD9bn5PhJA/s200/start+of+one+of+a+kind+drumline.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493508466221726546" border="0" /></a>One of a Kind Drumline promotes education. Last October the youth went online and research different careers; it did not matter what grade they are in, they all did it. That way they can start looking into different career opportunities and see how they can apply their interests with what they can do for careers. Eddie also engaged all his students into the national college fair. They got criticized for taking the younger students. But, Eddie believes that exposing the kids even if they are young is the way to go. That way promotion of higher education is instilled in their young growing minds early on.
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<br />Eddie said “expose kids to music, community service, and career research will prepare the youth for what is in store for them as they continue to grow and learn”. He wants to make sure these kids obtain skills to make succession a reality.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What is behind your aspiration to form this program for the youth?</span>
<br />Growing up in poverty, Eddie used the drums to help him deal pain. We all have our own means of dealing with various life experiences. Eddie having a mixture of Native American and Mexican blood running through his veins was tempted by rhymes of the drums. The drums allowed him to overcome a lot and have made him who he is today. Eddie saw the positive impact the drums had with his life and formed this program to make his method of coping with things available.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">When did you start the program?</span>
<br />One of his co-workers, Tammy, had a troubled foster child. He reminded Eddie of his own childhood. Eddie was going to teach his son how to play the drums and invited Tammy’s son to join them. They started with having a bunch of broken equipment and gathered kids to play them. Eddie was used to fixing drums; so he would buy stuff from E-Bay and fix them. From then on, they would get more drums and more drums to fix up. Later, they received grants which allowed them to expand their amount of equipment.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What is the foundation of the program and what are you trying to achieve with it?</span>
<br />“If it was not for my drums…I do not know where I would be right now,” Eddie says. Eddie grew up dealing with complex issues and understands that as minorities, we deal with a lot of issues which can either empower us or break us down. He used the drums to empower himself so founded this program to bring out a positive notion of dealing with the complexity of the life of a minority. The program gives the youth tools to empower themselves with.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYpz1AdQuaiArjf417huVZ51X8CCa7YhXnaS_oqfU8uRspDJUg1PydaF34XKOe91AnTG2cdbKXFcPisPnI9xo6_R4hUGN5I3Ui0rfjSYvK37KTs0qY2TZOeJ8iKQJlGNsm5tYwU8eSK4/s1600/DL_group_edited.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYpz1AdQuaiArjf417huVZ51X8CCa7YhXnaS_oqfU8uRspDJUg1PydaF34XKOe91AnTG2cdbKXFcPisPnI9xo6_R4hUGN5I3Ui0rfjSYvK37KTs0qY2TZOeJ8iKQJlGNsm5tYwU8eSK4/s200/DL_group_edited.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493508681695394994" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Do you plan on expanding this program into other regions?</span>
<br />“Yes,” Eddie says, “we do plan on expanding it but first we have to finish establishing the non-profit status.” Their plan is to develop the program to where they are teaching students and providing them with an area to study. He loves all his students equally; but relates to Latinos more because they share the same culture and history. His mission is to serve everyone but especially the Latino youth.
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<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5Cguzmanb1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:swiss; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1073750139 0 0 159 0;} @font-face {font-family:Cambria; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1073741899 0 0 159 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0in; margin-right:0in; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center; line-height: 150%;" align="center"><i><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; font-family: Cambria; color: rgb(247, 3, 96);">It’s me Dani…bringing you the news from our Communities, Leaders, and Youth</span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; font-family: Wingdings; color: rgb(247, 3, 96);"><span style=""></span></span><i><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; font-family: Cambria; color: rgb(247, 3, 96);"><o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<br />LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-36823105801969222772010-07-09T08:32:00.000-07:002010-07-09T09:26:08.061-07:00Eat at Burien Panda Express for a Good CauseA message from Gaby, one of the many students doing great work in their communities. Please find time to support Latin@s Stand Up, an excellent high school club who work to improve the Latino dropout rates at Global Connections High School (in Sea Tac) by educating Latino parents in their language on important educational issues affecting their student in an un-intimidating location and encouraging parents to partner with the school. Some past LSU events include an annual BBQ for Latino parents, visiting a college classroom, and attending educational conferences.<br /><div><br />-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-uceMkamd-nnCLiJvdW1J6FH6-5rfXIUAQAifRRPXuvKvT5SdjAo47mL8ywGq9FU2IUN0NupPGcajs4Qq7JsH7SzlRD3gF9C85ENEZPb5MkmZuFAuMSVZy4ENiqzcvVFfF4LbC6bOwGU/s1600/Panda+Express.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 248px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-uceMkamd-nnCLiJvdW1J6FH6-5rfXIUAQAifRRPXuvKvT5SdjAo47mL8ywGq9FU2IUN0NupPGcajs4Qq7JsH7SzlRD3gF9C85ENEZPb5MkmZuFAuMSVZy4ENiqzcvVFfF4LbC6bOwGU/s320/Panda+Express.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491930672116831730" border="0" /></a>-----------<br />Hello Everyone,</div> <div> </div> <div>Global Connections High School's <a title="blocked::mailto:Latin@s" href="mailto:Latin@s">Latin@s</a> Stand Up Movement (LSU) is having a fundraiser. On Saturday July 31, 2010 from 11am - 10pm <u><strong>present the attached flyer</strong></u> to the Burien Panda Express and 20% of your purchase will be donated to LSU. Please tell your friends, family, and colleagues.</div> <div> </div> <div>Thanks,</div> <div>Gaby<br /><br /></div> <div> </div> <div>Hola a Todos,</div> <div> </div> <div>El Movimiento <a title="blocked::mailto:Latin@s" href="mailto:Latin@s">Latin@s</a> Arriba de la preparatoria Global Connections estara recaudando fondos. El Sabado 31 de Julio del 2010 <u><strong>presente el volante adjunto</strong></u> al Panda Express de Burien y 20% de su compra sera donado al Movimiento <a title="blocked::mailto:Latin@s" href="mailto:Latin@s">Latin@s</a> Arriba. Favor de pasar este correo a sus amigos, familiares y colegas.</div> <div> </div> <div>Gracias,</div> <div>Gaby</div>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-9122120014565613072010-06-29T15:13:00.000-07:002010-06-29T15:16:21.591-07:00LEAP in the News<span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:navy;"><span style="font-family: Arial; color: navy; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: verdana; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">On Friday, LEAP, the Washington Commission on Hispanic Affairs and Alianza student coalition hosted a leadership forum in Vancouver, WA. Here is an article the Columbian wrote on the forum.</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.columbian.com/news/2010/jun/26/latino-youth-zero-in-on-issues-involvement/"><span style="font-family: verdana; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">http://www.columbian.com/news/2010/jun/26/latino-youth-zero-in-on-issues-involvement/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></span>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-17640656727969791202010-06-18T15:10:00.000-07:002010-06-18T15:43:01.344-07:00Marysville School Board Member: “Inferior” Students Need Not ApplyA parent volunteer has brought to our attention, Marysville School Board member, Michael Kundu. Kundu has recently been making headlines based on an email he sent commenting on the achievement gap and "certain ethnic groups possess[ing] biological advantages and disadvantages compared to others, in areas including brain sizes and intelligence levels" (quote taken from Seattle PI news article).<br /><br />The ACLU in Washington recently an posted an excellent article on their blog in response to this recent situation. You can view the blog by clicking on the link below:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.aclu-wa.org/blog/marysville-school-board-member-inferior-students-need-not-apply">http://www.aclu-wa.org/blog/marysville-school-board-member-inferior-students-need-not-apply</a><br /><br />If interested, there will be a Marysville School Board Meeting (4420 80th Street NE, Marysville, WA 98270) at 6:30 pm on Monday June 21st where the school board will vote on Kundu's achievement gap proposal. This meeting is open to public comments.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.aclu-wa.org/blog/marysville-school-board-member-inferior-students-need-not-apply"></a>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-9573121316730713692010-06-01T16:18:00.000-07:002010-06-01T16:22:39.384-07:00College Bound Scholarship for 7th and 8th GradersOjo! the deadline for 7th and 8th grade students to sign up for the College Bound scholarship is the 30th of June. Don't miss this great opportunity! <br /><br />For more information visit the HECB website: <a href="http://www.hecb.wa.gov/CBS2010deadline.asp">http://www.hecb.wa.gov/CBS2010deadline.asp</a>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-1136772482117542872010-05-26T08:24:00.000-07:002010-05-26T08:34:22.636-07:00Follow Up to Daniela, our new LEAP Student Reporter<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORkOyc61p_HPV5vJwvy0blUBAwb5RAZWOGRS_vF3RupjYCMeYs_2mD5SWFuzONINJ1HHPlpF4dOYX4Tu1qg7GPY2RSNK9qHn8nmcSkduAoZCxNJ2Li4Hz1rapEL17asS253H_zwoLNdU/s1600/girl.mic.9208.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORkOyc61p_HPV5vJwvy0blUBAwb5RAZWOGRS_vF3RupjYCMeYs_2mD5SWFuzONINJ1HHPlpF4dOYX4Tu1qg7GPY2RSNK9qHn8nmcSkduAoZCxNJ2Li4Hz1rapEL17asS253H_zwoLNdU/s200/girl.mic.9208.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475600952208615010" border="0" /></a><br /><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceName"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:swiss; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1073750139 0 0 159 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0in; margin-right:0in; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} p.NoSpacing, li.NoSpacing, div.NoSpacing {mso-style-name:"No Spacing"; mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="NoSpacing"><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;font-size:12;" >A continuation of Daniela "Dani" Najera, our LEAP Student Reporter's leadership influences and background...</span><b style=""><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><br /></span></b></p><p class="NoSpacing"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><br /></span></b></p><p class="NoSpacing"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" >My Story:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="NoSpacing"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">I am a </span><st1:placename style="font-family: georgia;" st="on">Latina</st1:placename><span style="font-family:georgia;"> born and raised in a small agricultural town in the North Central Washington called Brewster. I was born to an undocumented immigrant who raised me and my two sisters as a single mother. I may not have had a father or much money growing up but love and inspiration was always by my side. I was always a leader within my friends and liked being in charge of things. Later on in life, I began seeing the reality of life. I was growing up and saw how people were treated differently based on class, race, gender, and legal status. I was eight when I told my mom I was going to become a lawyer and help her fix her papers. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="NoSpacing"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="NoSpacing"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="NoSpacing"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">During my early teen years, I began to rebel. I did things I should not have done; disobeying my mom so many times. I know karma happens and believe me karma hit me hard or at least I thought it did. My mom was taken away from me, my family, and community on November 2007 one cold fall night when ICE surprisingly knocked at my house and walked in. That day forever scared my life and the lives of my household. For a while I was depressed and blamed myself for being a </span><i style="font-family: georgia;">bad</i><span style="font-family:georgia;"> daughter and not appreciating my mom for all her worth. With the help of my Aunt Elvia and friends, I realized it wasn’t my fault and that God allowed this to happen for a reason. So I decided to learn from the adversity and take it as a sign to change my </span><i style="font-family: georgia;">rebel </i><span style="font-family:georgia;">ways and strive even more to graduate, go to college, and make it in this world not only for my sake but for my mother’s sake as well. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="NoSpacing"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="NoSpacing"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="NoSpacing"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">I could not be where I am today if it was not for all the love and support I have received. I have chosen to get educated and make something of myself to show that all the love and support I have received did not go to waste. Love and support work as my soul’s battery to keep me going no matter what my struggle is. Hardships are never easy to face. Pain does not decrease as the frequency of hardships increases. I have taken many falls; but with the falls, I regained strength to pick myself up and continue my journey to what will one day be my destiny. Adversity has given me a better perceptive of my dreams, my reality, and how to make my dreams my reality. Nothing in life is eternal. Adversity will continue throughout my life; I have learned the hard way I will lose a lot of what I love. I must and will stay positive. God has a purpose for me and allows things to happen for a reason. Adversity and pain exist to push me to grow and prepare me to learn, live, and lead. Despite life’s ups and downs, only I shall decide what I want my life to be; thus I shall strive to make my </span><i style="font-family: georgia;">want</i><span style="font-family:georgia;"> my only reality! </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="NoSpacing"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="NoSpacing" style="font-family:georgia;"><b style=""><span style="font-size:12;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="NoSpacing" style="font-family:georgia;"><b style=""><span style="font-size:12;">Role Models: <o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="NoSpacing" style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:12;">My role models are the two women who raised me, my mom Maria Ignacia Martinez and her sister Maria Elvia Martinez. They both have sacrificed so much for our family. In the <st1:placename st="on">U.S.</st1:placename>, my mom worked in the sheds and orchards. She is always willing to help, expecting nothing in return. Being the oldest, my mom was like another mother to her siblings. She did not have the chance to get far in her education but she was a leader in our community and church. My aunt graduated from high school in <st1:placename st="on">Mexico</st1:placename>. When she came to the <st1:placename st="on">U.S.</st1:placename> she worked the same jobs my mom worked. Later on, she went to college and became a certified Registered Nurse. Today she is the school nurse for the <st1:placename st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Brewster</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">School District</st1:placename></st1:placename>. As I get older, I am finding out more about the life stories of these two women. They both have gone through their own adversities and remain standing strong as they hold on proudly to their native roots. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="NoSpacing" style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:12;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="NoSpacing" style="font-family:georgia;"><b style=""><span style="font-size:12;"><br /></span></b></p><p class="NoSpacing" style="font-family:georgia;"><b style=""><span style="font-size:12;">Her Goals: <o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="NoSpacing"><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:12;" >Become a lawyer of civil law and defend the human rights of all. My ultimate goal is to become a leader of this world and make an emphasis for human rights that will strike profoundly and thus bring change so desperately need not just to this country but to the world. </span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:12;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;">It is a very ambitious goal but I’m still young and if God allows me time, I will get educated enough to pursue my goal and make it a reality! </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-46151308791142488212010-05-21T10:20:00.000-07:002010-05-21T14:59:15.990-07:00Mt Vernon LEAP Club hosted Retirement Dinner for Rep. Dave Quall<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNgPW6_1DllTeoMJz8aXZUqaBWveX1PIE7ZafA4qIbwUMEtdrdQZN6FNCS5hY50df-u6uqY5vDbktohF_MtLW-r7DKuAf3c18kwXK_WZ3WeQMAuhuNoIwp_LVjatQQ61vllIu0gbTIJds/s1600/Dave+Quall+Dinner+5.18.10+023.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 220px; height: 139px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNgPW6_1DllTeoMJz8aXZUqaBWveX1PIE7ZafA4qIbwUMEtdrdQZN6FNCS5hY50df-u6uqY5vDbktohF_MtLW-r7DKuAf3c18kwXK_WZ3WeQMAuhuNoIwp_LVjatQQ61vllIu0gbTIJds/s220/Dave+Quall+Dinner+5.18.10+023.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473841957296433202" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8UCWlKdN0WGXvbeDxBULDIkd2k3fGye6AuODkdEz09HhPusNjz-uDvitr1Vh_qDK7mf6gd9OG5u4CTWjv05f6886oRYt9C3Tp9kfP3ujHW0w2yEKS3Nv01zEcSa6YWO_qv0ypOl48dmc/s1600/Dave+Quall+Dinner+5.18.10+006.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 220px; height: 139px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8UCWlKdN0WGXvbeDxBULDIkd2k3fGye6AuODkdEz09HhPusNjz-uDvitr1Vh_qDK7mf6gd9OG5u4CTWjv05f6886oRYt9C3Tp9kfP3ujHW0w2yEKS3Nv01zEcSa6YWO_qv0ypOl48dmc/s220/Dave+Quall+Dinner+5.18.10+006.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473841952437646050" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZodCnvDKFBE85KnCBguGfysUMxwyVsiSGrr9vE7M3_FF_wD8bSOjdiVdjfnFmAGwN9ztQv_3TEXq1FhUZen8qm7Hz5S2kdB_nv2YPXvTiyVVGc7iO9hGlcauMIGh6LEJqniZ3hkGgX8/s1600/Dave+Quall+Dinner+5.18.10+004.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 220px; height: 139px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZodCnvDKFBE85KnCBguGfysUMxwyVsiSGrr9vE7M3_FF_wD8bSOjdiVdjfnFmAGwN9ztQv_3TEXq1FhUZen8qm7Hz5S2kdB_nv2YPXvTiyVVGc7iO9hGlcauMIGh6LEJqniZ3hkGgX8/s220/Dave+Quall+Dinner+5.18.10+004.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473775668582192002" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSb2xkClwMKKGEJv-qtxIGNyxmhUkVkOtv2XFZVnDYlyfbB398btZxZZUlaJGoU9qxk33R-I-gRXmjvrcGLsy53thoPnZ1EkJnyOFzVaV0J43jFLbQjWYASQAQn4FrfQh95xh-WNClCs/s1600/Dave+Quall+Dinner+5.18.10+016.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 220px; height: 139px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSb2xkClwMKKGEJv-qtxIGNyxmhUkVkOtv2XFZVnDYlyfbB398btZxZZUlaJGoU9qxk33R-I-gRXmjvrcGLsy53thoPnZ1EkJnyOFzVaV0J43jFLbQjWYASQAQn4FrfQh95xh-WNClCs/s220/Dave+Quall+Dinner+5.18.10+016.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473775660613844210" border="0" /></a>On May 18th, Representative Dave Quall, an amazing state representative and a big supporter of LEAP, was surprised by students of the Mount Vernon High School Latino Leaders Club (aka LEAP Club). After 18 years serving as the representative for the 40th District, Quall has chosen to retire. This dinner was to celebrate and appreciate his service in the state legislature.<br /><br />Students organized and prepared a delicious meal of mole, enchiladas with rice and beans for Rep. Quall, a true champion for students in the state legislature. Students also invited MVHS Superintendent Carl Brunner, Skagit Valley College President Dr. Gary Tollefson, Representative Jeff Morris and others who all describe memorable Quall moments.<br /><br />LEAP Club members wrote a dedication in the program that read:<br /><blockquote>Some of us have seen Representative Quall in Olympia for the past few years when we go there for legislative day during the state LEAP conference. He always takes time to talk to students from MVHS, and we especially like taking pictures with him.<br /><br />We have learned that he cares a lot about futures and we appreciate very much that he wants to see all of us have the ability to go to college and be able to have good jobs.<br /><br />We feel that we are fortunate to have a represenative like Dave Quall and we wish that he wouldn't retire. He inspires us to want to keep a positive attitude and never give up even when things are difficult for some of us.<br /><br />Thank you Representative Quall for being who we have learned you are - an individual with courage and a passion for helping others. We hope you will continue to come and talk to students involved in the LEAP Club at MVHS. You will always be welcome.<br /></blockquote>At the end of the ceremony, LEAP Club President José Sánchez and Vice President Fanny Silverio presented Rep. Quall with an award. Rep Quall told students of all the retirement dinner he's attended, this was the best one.LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-81172691508778896652010-05-03T17:07:00.000-07:002010-05-03T16:54:20.587-07:00Meet LEAP’s New Student Reporter – Daniela Alejandra Najera!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVtWCYE31szwoMtfCRoPxd2AsZn5wGfmT4nONoUz_3acK1z2EDQfL4swS7XvfTf7mBfOSmldq0eKGXB772akWPB3IkUrwr527hfb4yoiGcDO7BMHHtnw6t8hvw5-E1HNCbUmVykepJH7o/s1600/Daniela.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVtWCYE31szwoMtfCRoPxd2AsZn5wGfmT4nONoUz_3acK1z2EDQfL4swS7XvfTf7mBfOSmldq0eKGXB772akWPB3IkUrwr527hfb4yoiGcDO7BMHHtnw6t8hvw5-E1HNCbUmVykepJH7o/s320/Daniela.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467193306657651874" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:12;" >Daniela is LEAP’s new Student Reporter and a current <st1:placetype st="on">University</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename st="on">Washington</st1:placename> freshman from <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Brewster</st1:place>, <st1:state st="on">Washington</st1:state></st1:city>.<span style=""> </span>She is majoring in Political Science and American Ethnic Studies; and minoring in Education and Diversity.<span style=""> </span>Daniela will be finding time in her busy schedule to interview Latino youth and bringing to you many of the exciting and interesting things Latino students are doing in <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on">Washington</st1:place></st1:state> state.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span> <p class="NoSpacing" style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:12;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="NoSpacing" style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:12;">Daniela has extensive leadership skills and served as one of the LEAP Conference planning committee member.<span style=""> </span>She has also:<o:p></o:p></span></p><br />-<span style="font-size:12;"> served as her class president for 3 years, <o:p></o:p></span><br /><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:12;"><span style=""></span></span><span style="font-size:12;">- was a Junior Counselor at La Cima Bilingual Leadership Camp, <o:p></o:p></span><br /><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:12;"><span style=""></span></span><span style="font-size:12;">- a GEAR UP Camp Junior Counselor, and <o:p></o:p></span><br /><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:12;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" > </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:12;">- is currently involved with the UW Latino Student Union.<span style=""> </span></span><br /><span style="font-size:12;"><span style=""></span><o:p></o:p></span><br /><span style="font-size:12;"><o:p></o:p>But its not all business with Daniela, she loves to sing, dance, and is one mean baker.<span style=""> </span>She enjoys jogging but especially loves soccer, whether it’s playing, watching, recording stats, or being the manager or stats keeper of the team.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span> <p class="NoSpacing" style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:12;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="NoSpacing" style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:12;">Daniela likes to express herself through her writing and says:</span></p> <p class="NoSpacing" style="font-family:georgia;"><i style=""><span style="font-size:12;"><blockquote>As I think, I have this vision of my idea and want to express it to reflect the vision in my head; so others can see and feel what I see and feel. I like expressing myself through writing because it is a way of keeping a tangible record of important things and I enjoy looking back at what I have written (diaries, journals, papers/essays, poems, etc). A record of the past influences the future and keeps memories alive.<span style=""> </span>As LEAP reporter, I will keep a record of LEAP activity to inform others of what is going on with LEAP and to have documentation of the actions LEAP is taking. I want to assure that when I no longer exist, ideas, belief, and memories important to me still remain; I can guarantee this will be through writing. The life of one’s body is not eternal but a piece of writing is and can carry so much life within it.</blockquote><o:p></o:p></span></i></p> <p class="NoSpacing" style="margin-left: 0.25in;font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:12;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:12;" >We are very proud to have Daniela as part of the LEAP Team and we will bring you more on this amazing leader at a later time.<span style=""> </span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"></span>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-85291224453779413462010-04-29T11:49:00.000-07:002010-04-29T11:57:08.581-07:00Senator Dick Durbin, Illinois, supports students who would qualify under the DREAM ActU.S. Senator Richard (Dick) Durbin from Illinois, one of the main sponsors of the DREAM Act, recently sent a letter to Janet Napolitano, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, urging her to defer the deportations of students who would be eligible for residency under provisions of the DREAM Act. <br /><br /><br />This we see as a precursor to his effort to get the DREAM Act passed this year. Please join us in thanking Senator Durbin for his leadership letting him know we support passage of the DREAM Act as a first step in comprehensive immigration reform.<br /><br />Given the mood of the country following the divisive healthcare reform debate, proceeding carefully and thoughtfully on immigration reform is a reasonable and wise strategy.<br /><br /><br /><br />Here is a link to see Senator Durbin’s correspondence to Secretary Napolitano.<br /><a href="http://durbin.senate.gov/showRelease.cfm?releaseId=324015">http://durbin.senate.gov/showRelease.cfm?releaseId=324015</a><br /><br /><br />IT IS IMPORTANT FOR SENATOR DURBIN TO HEAR THAT HIS EFFORTS ARE APPRECIATED.<br /><br />Please thank Senator Durbin for his leadership by phone, fax or email at:<br /><br /><br />(202) 224-2152 - ph<br />(202) 228-0400 – fx<br /><br />email: http://<a href="http://durbin.senate.gov/contact.cfm">durbin.senate.gov/contact.cfm</a>LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4441148302485850490.post-28677816036732634312010-03-30T10:30:00.000-07:002010-03-30T11:31:34.850-07:00Advisory Board Meeting April 16th<span style="font-style:italic;">The LEAP advisory board consists of teachers, administrators, community members, and students from all over Washington state. LEAP's advisory board meets 2 to 3 times a year to develop LEAP's educational policy priorities and discuss important topics centered on improving the academic achievements for students.</span><br /><br />The Advisory Board meeting is a great way for students, and others in the community, to participate and have their voices heard. The Advisory Board meetings are used as a time to reflect on recent LEAP activities and how we can improve our efforts. We discuss different educational situations affecting Latino students and begin thinking how we can affect policy through our yearly recommended educational policy priorities. Sometimes these priorities are complex, such as SB 6778 (alternative graduation requirements), other times they are local efforts to federal bills (seeking sign resolutions from school boards in support of the DREAM Act), other times it is controversial but much needed (in state tuition for 1079 students) but all seek to increase the number of Latino students in Washington state who are graduating from high school, continuing their education beyond high school and excelling in their efforts.<br /><br />As students, sometimes we are intimidated by these types of meetings but we are an open group and enjoy hearing what students have to say. You are the ones living the situations that we want to improve and would like to know how it may affect you. Some of the concepts discussed might be difficult to follow (believe me, I still have difficulties) but the more you attend, the more accustomed you become. <br /><br />If you are planning to be near Central Washington University on April 16th, take a moment out of your day to join us at Shaw 113 from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm.LEAPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06629933250699320393noreply@blogger.com0