Kelly Administration hosts Latina Leadership Summit

WICHITA, Kan. – Governor Laura Kelly’s appointed Kansas Hispanic Latino American Affairs Commission (KHLAAC) held the Latina Leadership Summit in late June at Wichita State University.

The annual summit spotlights Latinas who have run for elected office or are strong, engaged advocates for progress in their communities. This year’s theme was “Uplifting Latina Power Through Civic Engagement,” and the event included workshops on civic engagement, voting, and self care. Nearly 100 people were in attendance.

“This year’s Latina Leadership Summit promoted a very important message:  Women belong in places of leadership,” Governor Laura Kelly said.

“Women of every color and creed should be part of every conversation that affects their lives. I’ve seen that in my own life, and I’ve worked to bring more women to the decision-making table alongside me,” Kelly added.

Since the Governor took office in 2019, more than half of her administration’s appointees have been women.

Those appointments have included cabinet positions, judges, and board and commission directors.

Esther Lopez, former International Secretary of the United Food and Retail Workers, was the featured speaker.

“The Latino electorate is the fastest growing in the country,” Lopez said.”This event promoted civic engagement and centered Latina leadership in Kansas. We’re seeking to build an inclusive country where the Latino community will help lead efforts to strengthen our democracy.”

“KHLAAC continues to show leadership by hosting trainings and events for civic engagement in our community,” Aude Negrete, Executive Director of KHLAAC said .”I want to thank Governor Kelly for supporting this event every single year.”