Ayer Resident and Immigrant Rights Leader Doris Reina-Landaverde Receives Latinx Excellence Award, Senator Jamie Eldridge Presents Recognition at State House
BOSTON, MA - As part of National Hispanic Heritage month, the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus (MBLLC) hosted the Latinx Excellence on the Hill Awards on Thursday, October 3rd at the State House to recognize Latino residents from across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, to community members who have shown initiative in civic engagement, education, business and other fields. State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton) nominated his Ayer constituent, Doris Reina-Landaverde for the Latinx Excellent on the Hill recognition.
Landaverde is a spokesperson for the National and Massachusetts Temporary Protected State (TPS) Coalitions. This initiative has been pushing back against Donald Trump's xenophobic cancellation of protective status for hundreds of thousands of immigrants who were granted legal status, in fleeing from a natural disaster in their native country.
“As an immigrant I think the event was great. I felt like it was my home the way they recognized Latins that we are advocating for our rights as immigrants. I hope they continue doing this to motivate us to continue fighting. I feel happy that they recognize our work and the contribution we make to this state. Especially to Senator Jamie Eldridge for believing in me. Thank you so much,” said Landaverde. Landaverde travels to Washington DC and across the country to educate others on TPS protection. She speaks about her experience being a TPS recipient since leaving her home country, El Salvador.
“The event is our way of celebrating National Hispanic Heritage month and we do so by honoring people like Doris who contribute so much to their communities. It allows us to recognize them and it provides a place for Latinx residents from across the state to gather and network, while also enjoying some good food in music,” said Lucas DeBarros, Executive Director of MBLLC. The citation presented to Landaverde by Senator Eldridge will serve as an official recognition of her work.
“I met Doris a few months ago at a rally for TPS recipients, and was so impressed with her courage in advocating for not only herself and her family, but hundreds of thousands of families just like hers, across the United States,” said Senator Eldridge. “Since then, I have met her family in Ayer, and was proud to nominate her for this Latinx Excellence award, for her important work.”
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