LULAC HONORS FATHERS WHO, AMID UNCERTAINTY, HOLD ON TO THEIR UNCONQUERABLE HOPE THIS FATHER'S DAY

Nation's Oldest and Largest Latino Civil Rights Organization Pays Tribute to the Sacrifices, Strength, and Spirit of Latino Fathers Facing Harsh Immigration Policies

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) joins millions of families this Father's Day in honoring the men who sacrifice daily for their loved ones. We celebrate the strength, character, and love of fathers across the United States and Puerto Rico, especially those in the Latino community who are under growing stress and hardship due to aggressive immigration enforcement actions tearing families apart.

"We pay homage to all fathers today, including Latino fathers who rise early, work hard, and participate in their communities with hope in their hearts despite the economic and social pressures they face," says Roman Palomares, LULAC National President and Chairman of the Board. "They carry dreams not just for themselves, but for their children, the hope that their son or daughter will one day walk across a graduation stage, earn a diploma, and live in a nation where justice and fairness are not reserved for the few. Their stories and those of deported military veterans and detained family men remind us why our work at LULAC must and will continue."

This year's celebration is bittersweet for many. Fathers in immigrant communities are being detained or deported under harsh federal policies. Fathers are increasingly being targeted in workplace raids and home arrests, with some being removed without due process. These actions leave mothers and children behind, often without warning, and shatter the fragile stability of households across the country.

"LULAC's mission has always been rooted in our belief in the promise of America for everyone," says Palomares. "We do not lose faith. As we approach our 100th anniversary, we remember that we are not just fathers of families, but also the figurative fathers of our community," he adds.

LULAC recognizes that while millions are celebrating today, many Latino families are facing this holiday with fear and sorrow. Detention centers nationwide hold fathers whose only "crime" was seeking a better life. Some have been here for decades, others are new arrivals, but all share the universal desire to protect and provide for their children. Their absence today is felt deeply, and their stories deserve to be seen and heard. Yet, amid this struggle, there is hope.

"Like our ancestors before us, we will continue defending our legacy, strong in our values, and leading our families and people toward a future grounded in dignity, inclusion, and justice," says Palomares. "On this Father's Day, let us rededicate ourselves to that cause and let our children see in us the infinite resolve to build a better tomorrow."

LULAC reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that all fathers, regardless of status, have the right to be present in their children's lives. The organization will continue to advocate for compassionate, humane immigration policies that keep families together and uphold the values enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.

# # #

About LULAC

The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation's oldest and largest Latino civil rights organization. Founded in 1929, LULAC is committed to advancing the rights and opportunities of Latino Americans through advocacy, community building, and education. With a growing nationwide network of councils, LULAC remains dedicated to protecting and empowering millions of Latinos, contributing daily to America's prosperity. For more information about LULAC and its initiatives, please visit www.LULAC.org.