HARTFORD— In stark contrast to the shadow of disruptions and edicts from Washington, state lawmakers who are racial and ethnic minorities intend to continue aggressive campaigns for diversity, equity, and inclusion, while also assisting in the protection of undocumented immigrants in their cities from what they call federal agents’ potential predatory tactics.
While they represent only a small portion of the 187-member General Assembly, the 39-member legislative Black and Puerto Rican Caucus (BPRC) includes some of the legislature’s most powerful members.
They include Rep. Toni Walker, D-New Haven, co-chairwoman of the Appropriations Committee, who was first elected in 2000, and Sen. Douglas McCrory, D-Hartford, who chairs the Education Committee.
During a news conference last week in the Legislative Office Building to discuss the caucus’ budget-setting goals, Walker stated that it has never been more important for the legislature to be a reliable source of health and safety for state residents.
“I know the chaos in Washington has made us all totally disheartened and scared,” Walker told the crowd. “I know fear is rising in our communities, stronger than it has ever been.
But this is precisely why we must stand firmer on our principles. Why we must remain committed to our communities.” She emphasized the importance of continuing to support marginalized and underserved communities.
“Equity is not a word,” Walker explained. “It is a mandate. It is a force that levels the playing field, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, location, or ZIP code, has an equal opportunity for success. Now is not the time to retreat, soften our stance, or hope that we can somehow avoid the harm coming from Washington.
Our caucus is founded on principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. D.E.I., okay? These are Connecticut values. The beauty of these values is that when we fight for them, everyone benefits.
“It’s a very, very, very traumatic time for a lot of communities,” said Rep. Geraldo Reyes, D-Waterbury, a House deputy speaker who has served since 2016.
“Our Black and brown communities are under attack,” Reyes told reporters. “The BPRC supports our immigrants. We do not support criminals who are here illegally and are breaking our laws, particularly the heinous crimes. We are here to foster trust, cooperation, and protect all people, regardless of immigration status.”
State Rep. Antonio Felipe, D-Bridgeport, chairman of the caucus, stated that working families are at the heart of the caucus’ constituents and the challenges they face on a daily basis.
“Diversity, equity and inclusion, we’re not going to back away from that,” he told reporters. “It’s past time for Connecticut to stand up, take the lead, and ensure that we’re doing everything we can for Black, Puerto Rican, and Latino members of our communities.
When questioned by a reporter, Felipe stated that Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials had been seen operating in the state, but there was no evidence of a coordinated effort to seize undocumented residents.
“We hope that they do things by the letter of the law and that they’re walking in and talking with folks they have warrants for and not anybody else, because going into those communities and scaring people off is not a good way to welcome a new administration,” Felipe told the crowd.
Reyes stated that people should exercise caution because rumors, which are spread through social media, “are fluid and active.” He claimed that seizures of aliens are rare. “They are picking their spots,” Reyes said. “Some people have been picked up. But, if you notice, it’s very quiet right now.”