CHCI Swearing-In Ceremony Highlights Feature Vice-President Elect Kamala Harris

Washington, DC, January 15, 2021 – The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) Swearing-In Ceremony held last night to welcome Hispanic members of the 117^th Congress, and officers of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) featured Senator and Vice-President Elect Kamala Harris. The oath was administered to the Members and CHC officers by retired Justice, the Honorable Carlos R. Moreno. Emmy Award-winning journalist, author, and co-host, ABC’s “The View” Sunny Hostin was the emcee. Los Gallos Negros performed the National Anthem.

A recording of the event is available on CHCI’s YouTube channel. Here are a few excerpts of last night’s remarks:

“We must work together to rectify these inequalities, to close the education and income gap, to fight for health and healthcare equity, to ensure the humane treatment of children and families at the border, to defend DREAMers, protect TPS holders, and ensure a fair, dignified immigration system that upholds America’s values as a beacon of hope and light for the world.” CHC Chair and U.S. Representative Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-36)

“Together, we will continue to fight for our Latino community that is being ravaged by this pandemic. Together, we can overcome the frightening and tragic events at the Capitol last week, and fight for a more just and a more unified future.” CHCI Chair and U.S. Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

“Fighting for the Latino community means not only beating the virus but also creating an economy that puts workers and their families first. It means addressing our climate crisis that disproportionately impacts Hispanic and Latino populations and it means recognizing the systemic racism in our justice system and race-based disparities in healthcare. And it means finally building an immigration system that treats people with dignity and is true to the values we say we cherish as Americans.” Senator and Vice-President Elect Kamala Harris 

“This year CHC members join a record breaking Democratic caucus which is now nearly 70% women, people of color, and LQBTQ members. Over more than 40 years of trailblazing leadership the CHC and CHCI have educated, empowered, and connected generations of Latinos with the resources needed to fulfill the promise of the American Dream for themselves and their families.” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi 

“Thank you so much, all of you, for your leadership at this moment of great change for our country and to the incredible leadership and staff that will make the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute come to life. Thank you for all you do.” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

“Forty-five years ago, five visionary leaders of the Latino community came together to create the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. It is because of their dedication to uplifting our communities that we can come together, even in the midst of these deeply troubling and uncertain times, to recognize the increased Latino representation in Congress we have today, and honor the legacy of past generations. Our Hispanic Members are a testament to the democratic process we all hold so dear.” Marco Davis, CHCI President and CEO 

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The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) is the premier Hispanic nonprofit and nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization in the country dedicated to developing the next generation of Latino leaders®. CHCI provides leadership, public service, and policy experiences to outstanding Latino/a/x students and young professionals, and convenes Members of Congress, other public officials, corporate executives, nonprofit advocates, and thought leaders to discuss issues facing the nation and the Hispanic community. Visit CHCI.org and follow us @CHCI on social media.