DODD CONNECTS WITH LATINO ELECTED OFFICIALS

“Today, Presidential candidate Chris Dodd addressed the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials NALEO Democratic Candidate Forum. Speaking in English and Spanish, Dodd highlighted his record and ties to the Latino community, and noted that increased access to opportunity for all families and better relations with Latin America would be priorities in his Administration.

Dodd cited his experience as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Dominican Republic, where he performed service projects and became fluent in Spanish. Last week, Dodd unveiled his American Community Initiative, which would promote a new commitment to public service through the expansion of the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, and a mandatory high school graduation requirement of community service.

“It was in the mountains of the Dominican Republic that I saw just how important Americas example was – and how whether your family came to this country in the last century or just a few years ago, the aspirations and dreams of families remain the same – to share in the great opportunity that this nation has to offer,” said Dodd.

Dodd continued, “For 26 years, I have worked to make that possible, by fighting predatory lending so more Hispanic and Latino families could own homes, the cornerstone of the American Dream. I have spent my career fighting to improve health care and early education, to ensure every child gets the best start in life, irrespective of where they are born.”

“With the right leadership we can build sustainable communities, expand opportunity and come closer to fulfilling the American dream at home. And abroad, we can restore our standing in the world, build a prosperous hemisphere and increase our security,” said Dodd. “On my first day as President, I will be able to call every leader in Latin America and say, Los problemas de ustedes, son nuestros problemas tambien. Los sueños de ustedes, son nuestros sueños.”

Dodd came to NALEO on the heels of the Tavis Smiley presidential debate forum at Howard University, which took place Thursday night. Next week Dodd will head to Iowa for his “River to River Tour”, where he will be joined by iconic singer Paul Simon.
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