English: Chicago, Ill. – On Saturday, February 16, Congresswoman Deb Haaland (NM-01) received the William C. Velasquez Trailblazer award at the U.S. Hispanic Leadership Institute’s National Conference. The award ceremony was part of a four day conference in which young people attended a series of forums, workshops, and seminars that coincide with the conference’s theme, Defend Democracy: Aquí y Ahora. Congresswoman Haaland also participated in an panel discussion aimed at discussing health, environment, and immigration.

“William Velasquez was a trail blazer, he broke down barriers to the ballot box and organized to improve the lives of farmworkers,” said Congresswoman Deb Haaland. “I see it as my duty to leave the ladder down behind me so young women and girls of color know they can be anything they want to be, and I will be here to help them climb that ladder.”

Congresswoman is a fierce advocate for equality and justice. Following inspirational speeches by Hon. Celina Villanueva, Hon. Luis Gutierrez, and Hon. Beto O’Rourke, Rep. Haaland was honored with the award, celebrating her achievements as one of the first Native American women in Congress, as well as her leadership positions in the Freshman Class of the 116th Congress and the House Committee on Natural Resources.

“Deb’s track record working to represent communities of color in New Mexico is proof of her passion and willingness to create platforms for unheard communities to rise. She is a woman who has stood strong to her values and culture to guide her moral compass as she opens doors for the next generations of women of color in politics. She works to ensure the hallways of Congress encompass a true reflection of communities across the country. Deb has created a pathway for girls and women to see themselves in a way they never have, and to be empowered that they can too, can one day serve as a member of the United States Congress while staying grounded to their culture and values,” said Cindy Nava, Chief Administrative Officer of the U.S. Hispanic Leadership Institute.

The U.S. Hispanic Leadership Institute fulfills the promises and principles of democracy by promoting education, research, and leadership development, and empowering Latinos and similarly disenfranchised groups by maximizing their civic awareness, engagement, and participation.