Salute to Hispanic Women Conference & Luncheon
May 10, 2003

The HCCW is proud to continue its tradition of celebrating Hispanic women and addressing issues relevant tot our upward mobility. Releasing the culturally embedded norms which still prevent Hispanic women from realizing their full potential continues to be our goal and objective.

Often times I come into contact with Hispanic women who have overcome many obstacles on their road to empowerment. Hispanic women who demonstrate resilience, innovation, and determination. No secret, we have worked hard to get to where we are today both nationally and locally. We must use those well-earned experiences to empower other Hispanic women.

More Latinas are entering and completing college and moving on to professional careers. Although we have made remarkable strides we must share our strengths and talents, motivate our young and actively promote higher education. The opportunity exists to become a powerful voice for ourselves and our communities.

Our growing professional numbers reflect the living testament of Hispanic achievers who came before us paving the way and opening doors of opportunity. Their legacies serve as a beacon for many of us who embrace a culture with strong family and religious values, concern for community and a strong desire to maintain cultural identities, traditions and language.

To all mis hermanas, believe in yourself. The best is yet to come!

"To empower and inspire, these word summon our past and mark a path for our future."
Congresswoman Nydia Velasquez (D-NY)

Adelante Juntos,

Maria Monreal-Cameron
President and CEO