The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) has expressed its disagreement with President Donald Trump's recent address to a joint session of Congress, citing his portrayal of immigrants as "threats." This announcement was made in a press release on March 4, 2025.
According to LULAC's statement, President Trump's speech focused on isolated incidents involving undocumented individuals and presented what they described as a misleading image of immigrant communities. The organization emphasized that these communities contribute significantly to America's success, particularly highlighting the positive impact of Latino immigrants.
The press release further said that Latinos contribute over $3.2 trillion annually to the U.S. economy and noted that immigrants, including those undocumented, commit crimes at lower rates than native-born Americans. It also highlighted the rapid growth of Latino-owned businesses and their role in the U.S. workforce while criticizing the President's focus on criminal incidents and support for "mass deportations."
"Our nation has been built by immigrants from all corners of the world, yet tonight, we heard a speech that sought to divide us instead of unite us," said LULAC National President and Chairman of the Board Roman Palomares. Palomares added that this rhetoric does not reflect an America where diversity is seen as strength and where hard work defines society rather than fear and hatred. He remarked that the President missed an opportunity to inspire confidence and highlight the positive role Latinos play in society.
LULAC is recognized as the largest and oldest Hispanic organization in the United States, focusing on improving economic, educational, political, housing, health, and civil rights for Hispanic Americans. With over 138,000 members across 525 councils, LULAC offers community-based programs for all Hispanic nationality groups. The organization emphasizes education, civil rights, health, and employment through scholarships, citizenship drives, voter registration initiatives, educational programming via its National Educational Service Centers, job training through SER Jobs for Progress, and corporate partnerships through the LULAC Corporate Alliance.
