Harrisburg Embracing the Sea of “Si Se Puede”

Alida, Deputy Secretary Diaz, Bianca, and Michelle

We made history at the Capitol! I feel that we were very successful in getting PA state-wide Latino communities involved in coming together to support one another in our endless task of advocacy. At the end of the day, I felt so empowered and proud! I feel that our effort made a difference in the lives of our community members, and our accomplishment has meaning beyond words. I saw the sea of blue tee shirts milling around the Capitol. SLAD representatives, young and old-er, were in animated and excited voices capturing Cesar Chavez’s famous phrase into a real and tangible thing: “Si se puede!”

Yes, we can . . . and we did! I thank my group (6) for being so wonderful and for not being afraid to step up and say what they needed to say! The representatives we met and visited with now know the youth are involved in the process, and they definitely have a say in their future! “My” youth were so impressive. I really think they learned from me (a seasoned vet as Ben would say), and no words can express how this influence swells me with pride. I remember being involved in learning about the political process myself during my youth, and to see these young people be so articulate and positive about making a difference in our community---well, I know that I leave my own little legacy in good hands!

We’ve only just begun on this journey, and in making this event something historically significant at the Capitol, our presence at the center of our Keystone State felt a new river of awareness forged out of a sea of blue tee shirts. We represented a new tide of change that is overdue, timely, and welcome!

Kudos and well done to the organizers!

Alida L. Padilla