State Rep. Earl L. Harris Jr. urges Latino Hoosiers to get involved in politics, both by voting and running for office

INDIANAPOLIS – State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. (D-East Chicago) attended the 39th annual convention of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) earlier this week. As one of three Latino legislators in the Indiana General Assembly – and the only legislator who is Latino and African American –  Harris understands the crucial role of representation in government.

“It was an honor to attend the NALEO conference and to meet with other Latino leaders from around the country. Regardless of race, national origin or any other demographic, Americans ought to be able to see themselves in those representing them,” Harris, who is Vice Chair of the Board of Latino Legislative Leaders, said. “And we need to encourage those who don't feel represented in a legislative body to run for office.

“As a Democrat, I know we need to welcome, respect and include Latino voices. While working toward those changes, I'll continue to advocate for all Latino Hoosiers, regardless of political affiliation. My home city of East Chicago is over 50% Latino, and I represent a district with a Latino population of over 33%. While we are a diverse community with various views and values, we all benefit when Latino legislators have seats at the table to advocate for us.”