This week, over 20 Latino leaders and organizations submitted a letter to the White House today asking President Obama and the Environmental Protection Agency for strong standards to limit carbon pollution from existing power plants.
The Latino population in the United States is particularly vulnerable to the effects of carbon pollution since fully one-half live in counties currently in violation of clean air standards. The following is an excerpt of the letter sent to Washington.
“The National Latino Coalition on Climate Change (NLCCC) has joined this call to ask President Obama to take action on climate change because our community’s exposure to polluted air and its health consequences makes us particularly sensitive to the impacts of global warming,” said NLCCC, Executive Director Mark Magana .
“As our letter reflects, heat waves, drought, wildfires and other extreme weather events impact our families, our businesses and our ability to thrive as a community and all too often impact Latinos more severely,” Voces Verdes advisory board member Roberto Carmona , added. “We want President Obama to know that we stand ready to support stronger carbon limits to help solve climate change.
“Voces Verdes, along with our partners and supporters, would like to congratulate you on your re-election. As leaders in the Latino community, we are proud to see the rising level of civic engagement in our community and are eager to work with your Administration in the coming years.
“This election made it clear that Latinos want a strong economy, immigration reform and a bright and healthy future for our children. Voces Verdes, and a record number of Latino organizations nationwide representing millions of citizens, are committed to protecting public health and the environment and consider it a high priority for all Americans and our community.”
Please visit Voces Verdes to read the letter in it’s entirety.
