FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 27, 2021
HACU statement on Governor Gavin Newsom signing of legislation to protect and support California’s immigrants
SAN ANTONIO – The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities has issued the following statement in response to Governor Newsom’s signing of legislation on September 24, 2021, to support California’s immigrant communities.
“The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities commends the Governor for signing six pro-immigrant bills on Friday,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “California is setting a positive tone for the nation in how it treats its immigrant communities. By removing the offensive term alien from California and referring to immigrants as noncitizens or immigrants, we begin to remove any negative connotation from individuals who help make California stronger as a state.
“HACU is pleased to see other bills, such as legislation which clarifies that existing law includes immigration status under the definition of “nationality” so that crimes targeting people due to their immigration status are considered a hate crime also signed into law. Combined with other pro-immigrant actions, including providing financial aid during the pandemic to immigrant communities, California is at the forefront of valuing its immigrant communities.
“HACU encourages Congress to follow the lead of California in passing pro-immigrant legislation by passing both the Dream Act and comprehensive immigration reform.”
About HACU
The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, founded in 1986, represents more than 500 colleges and universities in the United States, Latin America, Spain, and school districts throughout the U.S. HACU is the only national association representing existing and emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). The Association’s headquarters are in San Antonio, Texas, with regional offices in Washington, D.C and Sacramento, California.
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HACU Media Contact:
Norma Jean Revilla-Garcia
Executive Director of Communications and Marketing
Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities
210-576-3206
njgarcia@hacu.net
Christopher de Hoyos
Assistant Director of Communications and Social Media
Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities
210-576-3242
chris.dehoyos@hacu.net