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DVULI Honored in Nation’s Capital 2018 National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast

The DeVos Urban Leadership Initiative was honored for its commitment to corporate citizenship and partnering with faith communities by Esperanza, host of the National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast.

Held in Washington, DC, the Hispanic Prayer Breakfast attracted some 500 clergy leaders and advocates from over 30 states – which included a delegation of DVULI alumni and staff: Jennifer Cotto (Newark 2016), Obed Escobar (Phoenix 2017), Esther Flores (Columbus 2017), Misael Guzman (Newark 2014), Jerry Torrez (Denver 2012), Ruben and Terry Trevino (San Antonio 2017), Ginny Vander Hart, Zoraida Vélez and Claudia Witte (DVULI staff).

“As we reflect on our [Hispanic Prayer Breakfast] experience we realize that our voices represented millions of immigrants across our nation and people of faith as we advocated for immigration reform and religious liberties.” Misael Guzman (Newark 2014)

The group participated in advocacy training which gave them new tools for the congressional visits that took place on June 13. Topics for advocacy included immigration, with a particular focus on the topic of DACA recipients and family separation at the border, and religious freedoms.

In keynote sessions, U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan, Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Senate Minority Leaders Chuck Schumer, Senator Tim Scott, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson and others addressed the delegates on the topics above as well as on the power of faith and prayer.

Vice President Pence made his remarks during the National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast on the morning of June 14. He spoke on international relations, international aid, right to life and freedom of religion. Music was led by renowned Hispanic gospel singers and prayers were offered up by key clergy persons.

“From the get-go we felt that we were part of something bigger than us. Our visit to Capitol Hill was quite humbling. To be able to walk into the offices of those Congressmen, Congresswomen, Representatives, and Senators that are shaping our nation’s laws, and to speak on behalf of those in our country that cannot speak for themselves was a dream.” Ruben & Terry Treviño (San Antonio 2017)

More National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast photos

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