Latino faith leaders from Philadelphia and the surrounding region to meet with Pennsylvania Attorney General and Democratic gubernatorial candidate, Josh Shapiro. Welcomed by Rev. Luis Cortes, Jr., HCPV founder, and Rev. Carlos Diaz, Jr., President of the HCPV Board of Directors, the candidate addressed the group and fielded some insightful questions from clergy members.
After introductions, Mr. Shapiro stated his reasons for running for office and shared several of his priorities if he wins the election. Among his reflections, Mr. Shapiro mentioned the importance of the Latino community, and the importance of Latino representation of those doing business with the state. He stated that only 5% of contracts with the state are awarded to black or brown communities. He pointed to his track record regarding his priority in hiring well-qualified Latinos and Latinas in his administration. He also emphasized the need to recruit and retain front-line workers serving marginalized communities, including teachers, police officers, and nurses.
The representative clergy raised questions on a broad range of issues facing the community they serve. Poverty was part of the conversation, especially as it relates to limited educational opportunities for our children. Mr. Shapiro stated that he is for school choice, including scholarships for low-income students. There were questions regarding parental representation on the School Board of Education. “I believe parents are in control of their kids’ education,” Mr. Shapiro added, saying that he would like at least 2 parents represented on the board. He also recognized that “poverty is a driver of violence” throughout our state. He stated that his office has arrested over 8,200 drug dealers over the past 5 years, but argued it is necessary to address poverty and other underlying issues.
The clergy raised the issue of driver’s licenses for undocumented people, which other states provide, but not Pennsylvania. The candidate stated that it is something worth considering and expressed support for comprehensive immigration reform.
Mr. Shapiro was open and forthright on his position regarding what may be considered divisive areas such as abortion. “I believe women should make decisions over their own bodies,” he affirmed.
As has been the tradition of Hispanic Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity, they do not endorse candidates for office, but rather meet them for dialogue and prayer. The time together with Mr. Shapiro ended in prayer for the candidate, his family, the electoral process, and the state of Pennsylvania.
Rev. Rubén Ortiz is the Executive Director of Hispanic Clergy.
