Transatlantic Future: Engaging Next Generation Latina-Latino Leaders

As the U.S. population shifts to “majority/minority”, our leaders need to be equipped with the tools necessary to lead in increasingly global contexts. Of particular significance is the Latino population, with the proportion of Latinos operating in and around all levels of government continuing to grow.  It is essential to engage the next generation of Latino political leaders in all areas of policy, including transatlantic issues. 

Globalization of our world extends beyond business and economics to the political sphere.  In order to help effect change, diverse leaders need to insert themselves into the political process.  This generation of Latinos will steward U.S. policy, making up an increasing percentage of our elected officials at all levels.  It is critical that these leaders have a comprehensive understanding of the issues affecting our most important European neighbors—not only to grasp the intricacies of geopolitics, but to share ideas and to innovate policy solutions.

One example involves sharing strategies with populations across Europe that share themes in striving for inclusivity and equity, toward the broader global goal of inclusive societies.  We are more similar to other diverse leaders than we may suppose. Despite complexities in different countries’ political systems, party landscapes, population demographics and other national characteristics, the work toward inclusive policies is similar in our constantly developing societies.  The opportunity to learn more about individual struggles and successes with a transatlantic scope will also help the next generation of Latino leaders to be better champions for inclusive policies at home.

Latino identity is not monolithic. Many assume we are all similar because of a shared language experience and possible cultural ties.  The transatlantic experience, however, allows us to link our visions of leadership to deeper structures, and to broaden our understanding of what it means to have an inclusive leadership model on both sides of the Atlantic. The German Marshall Fund is taking a valued step in bringing together diverse leaders from both sides of the Atlantic to learn about the issues impacting communities and to bring about change. Latina-Latino representation in GMF’s leadership programs is increasing.  Alumni of GMF programs are then able to create bridges to ally ourselves with European leaders tackling pressing issues such as inclusive security, global migration, discrimination, and social cohesion in increasingly diverse societies. As part of this cohort of leaders, we believe it is the collective responsibility of alumni to bring others of historically underrepresented backgrounds through the ranks and to take an action-oriented approach to build a better future.

With this in mind, we endorse the continued provision of safe spaces for conversations among rising diverse leaders on both sides of the Atlantic that allow us to align our mission and goals, to unpack assumptions and to collectively see the connections that can be made to address the key issues of our time. There is power in bringing together leaders from diverse backgrounds and learning that we have more in common than differences. Peer-to-peer mentoring is also critical to advancing this agenda of inclusive leadership. To make this sustainable, we must also create lasting relationships for a new global leadership of the 21st century, and to inspire others who will be in positions of authority and decision making.  

Linda Lopez (TILN 2016 facilitator), Chief, Office of Immigrant Affairs, LA Mayor's Office at City of Los Angeles

Gabriel Sepulveda, (TILN 2014), Director of Policy and Public Affairs, Board of Hispanic Caucus Chairs