Briefs

Hispanic Day educates community leaders

The third annual Hispanic Day at the Capitol on April 21 will be the largest to date. With 200 representatives from throughout the state convening in Jefferson City, this year’s event more than doubles the 75 representatives who attended last year’s.
While some issues, such as racial profiling or the ability to obtain driver’s licenses, are likely to be discussed, the agenda will be set by the representatives, who, as part of registration, listed the three most important issues confronting the Hispanic community.
Co-chairman Anthony Ramirez said no single person can define and address the diversity of obstacles that Hispanics face, and that it’s important to receive input from everyone.
“I wouldn’t presume to put my thoughts in front of what the community says,” he said. “That’s why we’re including the survey, and there are already a variety of issues coming in.”
The event offers opportunities for Hispanic leaders to talk openly with elected officials, who often try to show their support of the Hispanic community during the event. At the inaugural Hispanic Day, Gov. Bob Holden announced the first Hispanic nominated to the Kansas City police board, Javier Perez, Jr.

— Coulter Jones

Hispanic Affairs commission created

In a step to improve commitment to Hispanic issues in state government, Gov. Bob Holden announced on March 25 the creation of the Governor’s Commision on Hispanic Affairs, and appointed 15 members.
The commission’s purpose is to serve as a statewide advisory body to the governor and the general assembly on issues of importance to the state’s Hispanics.
The commission will gather information, monitor legislative issues and make recommendations to state agencies and private businesses. The appointees represent various backgrounds from throughout the state.
Appointed from Columbia, Beatriz Calmet-Chinn is the owner of “El Puente Bridge,” a Hispanic business directory for mid-Missouri. “My goal is to see what the public and private sector can bring together in their efforts to help the Hispanic people,” she said.
Mauricio Vargas of Jefferson City, the catalytic missionary for the Missouri Baptist Convention, and Tomas Baca of Milan were also appointed. Baca is the public affairs manager at Premium Standard Farms and president of the Milan Centro Latino for about two of the organizations four years.
“The state is recognizing the potential and the need to address the issues facing the Latino population here in Missouri,” he said.

— Coulter Jones