People of Hispanic heritage represent roughly 17 % of the population. In Texas, it is more than double that with 32.8 % of our population represented by the Latino community. Juniors Yaritza Rendon and Zulieram Perez, two members of Texas’ Hispanic population, have important roles in (LULAC)’s club. LULAC is one of the oldest surviving Latino civil rights organizations.

There are more than 100 clubs and so many ways for people to get involved. Choosing one that, fits for you is the hardest decision to make. Yaritza Rendon explains how it is different,

“LULAC is different from other clubs because it focuses on people overcoming inequality and discrimination, to claim their rights as U.S. citizens and to get the American dream.” Rendon states.

The best thing about being a part of this club is that you feel welcome as you walk into the room. There is a sense of togetherness when you walk into the air.

Perez explained that “LULAC means family, “Perez said.” I have met so many people who stick up for me and support me. Without LULAC I don’t think I would have been able to know as much as I do now.” she says.

The club not only has a great sense of community, but also recognizes people who play a key role in altering them. Members get the opportunity to meet important role models in the Latino society. Members hoped that this exposure makes a change in their members lives.

“We have met a lot of important people, like National LULAC President, Domingo Garcia, Houston Chief Police Art Acevedo and  Beto O’Rourke,” Perez explains. “We enthuse our members to get involved with the issues of this world and make a change.”

On the news there was a lot of talk about immigration and other issues referring to the Latino community. Perez and Rendon shared their outlook on these difficulties.

“We are living in the time where republicans are scared of us. They know we are not the minority but the majority. Once I start no one can stop me from fighting the issue of separating our families, removing DACA, gun control, and police brutality,” Perez states.

LULAC believes people should stand up for these issues and share their point of views on them.

“LULAC is about being able to stand up for your rights and standing up for what you believe in,” Rendon said. “It is a great way to learn more about the problems we face and being able to meet new people!” Rendon states proudly.

The members enjoy getting involved and volunteering. Perez explains all of the different volunteering opportunities members are welcome to engage in. Especially the banquet at the end of every school year. Most importantly they want their members to learn new things out of these events.

“Our club does volunteering in local events and festivals. We do fundraisers for our National Convention or socials/ icebreakers we host. We love hosting socials the most because we can get to know our members better. We want our guest speakers to teach our youth to be more involved.” she says.

All of the members of LULAC are from Hispanic heritage. “My family originates from Mexico. We have around 40 members, and most of them are originated from Hispanic culture,” Rendon states.

Heritage and culture are the key aspects in LULAC, and without those it would not be the same. Rendon shares why she takes pride in being a Latin American.

“I take pride in being Latin American because I just love my culture, everything about it is amazing , even if some people consider Latin Americans “irrelevant” we don’t feed from that hate or stereotypes, that makes us stronger as Latinos.”

New members are very welcome to the club, but they do have to fill out a membership form. So far, this year there are 100 people still on the waiting list. Perez enthuses new members to join the family.

“They should join because it is a great experience, and you can become a better leader and make new friends. If I did not join I wouldn’t have met so many people who I treat like family. We are also recognized nationally which means you can earn a scholarship.”