July 19, 2013

Communications Office

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) commends the U.S. Senate for confirming the appointment of Thomas Perez as U.S. Secretary of Labor in a 54-46 vote on July 18.  Perez is the only Hispanic currently serving on the President’s Cabinet.

“We are pleased that the lengthy confirmation process of Mr. Perez has come to a successful conclusion,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “Clearly it is important that the largest and one of the fastest-growing minority populations in the country be included in the ranks of the nation’s leadership. This inclusion is important not only as a symbol of the importance of the Hispanic population, but as a means of assuring that the Hispanic voice and perspective are part of the national decision-making process.  Given that Hispanics are projected to make up 74 percent of those entering the U.S. workforce in this decade, it is fitting that Mr. Perez should be assuming responsibilities at the Department of Labor.”