Liderazgo, or leadership, is defined as “the capacity to influence, inspire, and guide others toward a shared vision or common goal”. Under the thoughtful stewardship of our Board of Trustees, LALDEF has been able to navigate the challenges of the last several months with clarity, confidence, and decisive action.

Recently, LALDEF had the opportunity to ask our board members a simple but powerful question: what does leadership mean to you? The insights shared speak to the very heart of our organization, illuminating the guiding principles which have defined our efforts for over 20 years:

“If liderazgo means anything at all, it means pointing the way during the toughest of times. And make no mistake, these last few years have been tough times, both locally and in our nation, for our immigrant community. But part of the joy of chairing LALDEF’s board has been watching all of us – clients, staff, board, donors – come together to commit ourselves more deeply to the organization, making it even stronger. Diamonds are produced under great pressure; organizations are strengthened under the same.” – Pete Taft, Chair

“I ascribe to the concept of servant leadership; leadership as an act of service. It is striving to give the best of yourself, while at the same time looking to lift the well-being of another before your own.  A leader leads with a collective vision and purpose, and simply helps to project the light of those you serve.” – Sasa Olessi Montaño, President

“Liderazgo means showing up with humility, purpose, and a steady hand, especially when the work is hard. Serving LALDEF during this challenging time has reminded me that real leadership is about consistency, compassion, and helping sustain work that gives families access to programs rooted in dignity, opportunity, and hope.” – Jonathan Lear, Treasurer

“Liderazgo is the obligation every LALDEF Trustee takes on to guide our futures together, as we navigate through one of the most challenging times for the U.S. Latino and immigrant communities seen in our lifetime.  Liderazgo requires a steadfast vision and purpose to bring about change for the good of all, and more importantly justice, equity, and knowledge, which is the root of power needed to bring about the change we desire.” – Mark Looney, Secretary

“Liderazgo es un compromiso. Es un compromiso de cuidar a los demás, una promesa de mirar más allá del presente hacia el futuro. LALDEF ha servido a nuestra comunidad durante más de veinte años, esforzándose por hacer realidad la visión de apoyo, educación y justicia.” – Jason Scott Camilo, Esq., Trustee

“Liderazgo means showing up; consistently, thoughtfully, and with a commitment to the community. Liderazgo is about listening and contributing, while acknowledging that there is no single way to lead or show up. Rather, it is in showing up differently and bringing our own unique experiences, perspectives, and talents that we build collective strength. Liderazgo is a sustained commitment to building lives of safety, dignity, and empowerment for all.” – Cynthia Martinez, Trustee

“Liderazgo to me means stepping up and facing challenges even in the hardest of times. Liderazgo requires courage: the willingness to do the hard work, make difficult decisions, and remain steady during times of uncertainty. It means taking responsibility, supporting others, and acting with integrity even when the path forward is unclear. Liderazgo is how LALDEF serves its community.” – Richard Sperry, Trustee

As an organization, LALDEF is lucky to be led by this visionary panel of changemakers, innovators, and advocates. From the courtroom to the clergy and everywhere in between, our leaders are making a difference for our immigrant neighbors and friends. On behalf of the LALDEF team, we extend our deepest gratitude to our Board of Trustees for  continually guiding our organization with courage, care, and commitment. 

To support this crucial work, please consider making a donation, linked here