In the past summer months, Centro Romero has been as busy as ever. In July, representatives of our organization attended the annual conference of UnidosUS, which is the largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the country, and a valued partner of Centro Romero. This year’s conference, titled “The Power of Us”, was a multi-day event that featured in-depth workshops and remarks from influential speakers, including US Vice President Kamala Harris and US Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra. A celebration of the progress that has been made, as well as an acknowledgment of the work still left to be done, this event was yet another step forward in Centro’s mission to empower and support the Chicago immigrant community.

Closer to home, Centro would like to highlight the success of photojournalist Rachel Woolf’s recent photo exhibition at the newly renovated “El Pueblo Unido” gallery next door, which our dedicated youth repainted in preparation for. Titled “Deported: A Family Divided”, Woolf’s powerful images chronicle the joys and struggles of an immigrant family split between the United States and Mexico. Not only are her photographs visually captivating, but they also launch an important discussion about immigration rights and our fundamental humanity.

Finally, what would summer be without time to relax and have fun? During the peak of our hot weather, Centro Romero youth took the opportunity to cool off and hit the beach. Sun, sand, and laughter united as they created unforgettable memories and fostered lasting friendships under the warm sun.