Hernandez Speaks to SIU Students, Highlights Importance of Commitment and Collaboration

SPRINGFIELD, Ill.  – On Tuesday, State Rep. Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez, D-Cicero, member of the Latino Caucus, spoke to students at the Southern Illinois University-Carbondale Paul Simon Public Policy Institute’s Latino Legislative Civic Education Day about the importance of commitment and collaboration in order to create good public policy.

“At a time of record breaking gridlock in both Washington and Springfield, it is important to talk to young people about the value of collaboration,” Hernandez said. “The Black-Brown coalition between myself and Representative Gordon-Booth is a powerful statement, a Latina legislator from Chicago and an African-American legislator from downstate, coming together to address injustices in our higher education system.”

Hernandez was the keynote speaker for Latino Legislative Civic Education Day, a day with the intent to encourage Latino students to apply for legislative internships. Hernandez used the opportunity to speak to students about the lessons she learned from her mother growing up, how they helped carry her all the way to Springfield, and how to this day they still play a role in the initiatives she pursues. She also spoke to students about the Student ACCESS bill, legislation that would extend financial aid eligibility to dreamers and drug offenders.

“My commitment to continue fighting for what is right has never wavered, especially now, when communities are being threatened and discriminated against,” Hernandez said. “I am so proud to see young people coming together to fight for a fair and inclusive future. Their passion motivates me, and I hope they know we need them. We need them to get involved in the political process and make their voices heard.”