UnidosUS: Leading Latino Advocacy in the United States
UnidosUS, formerly known as the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), stands as the largest Latino nonprofit advocacy organization in the United States. Based in Washington, D.C., the organization is dedicated to driving progressive public policy changes that empower the Hispanic community. Its primary focus areas include comprehensive immigration reform, establishing a path to citizenship for young people brought to the U.S. illegally, and working to reduce deportations.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1968 (originally as the National Council of La Raza).
- Headquarters: Washington, D.C.
- Leadership: Janet Murguía serves as President and CEO.
- Financials (2024): Revenue of $75.9 million, expenses of $72.3 million, and an endowment of $140 million.
- Scope: Maintains regional offices in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Phoenix, and San Antonio.
The Evolution of UnidosUS
Foundations and Early Growth
The roots of the organization trace back to 1963 with the formation of the National Organization for Mexican American Services (NOMAS) in Washington, D.C. NOMAS focused on providing technical assistance to Hispanic groups. This effort led to a proposal to the Ford Foundation, which subsequently commissioned Herman Gallegos, Julian Samora, and Ernesto Galarza to research how to best support Mexican Americans in the Southwest.
In 1968, Gallegos, Samora, and Galarza established the Southwest Council of La Raza (SWCLR) in Phoenix, Arizona. Supported by the Ford Foundation, the National Council of Churches, and the United Auto Workers, the group achieved 501(c)(3) nonprofit status that same year.
Transition to a National Presence
By 1973, the SWCLR expanded its scope to become a national entity, renaming itself the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) and relocating its headquarters to Washington, D.C. The term raza, while often translated as "race," was used by the NCLR to specifically denote "the people" or "the Hispanic people of the New World" within the context of political activism.
While initially focused on Mexican Americans, the NCLR officially expanded its mission in 1979 to include the issues and needs of all non-Mexican American Latinos. This shift ensured a more inclusive approach to advocacy for the entire Hispanic population in the U.S.
Adapting to Political and Social Shifts
The organization's operational strategy has evolved alongside the political climate. During the Reagan Administration, a reduction in federal funding forced the NCLR to scale back operations and concentrate its efforts on national policy in Washington, D.C. Later, following the 1996 Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act, the organization launched the Field Advocacy Project to influence welfare fund disbursement at state and local levels.
In 2005, Janet Murguía took over as President and CEO from Raul Yzaguirre. A significant rebranding occurred on July 10, 2017, when the organization officially changed its name to UnidosUS.
Modern Stance and Corporate Responsibility
UnidosUS continues to engage in high-profile advocacy and public discourse. On October 10, 2021, the organization announced it would sever all ties with Facebook. This decision followed revelations from a former employee regarding the platform's role in the proliferation of misinformation and hate speech.
Programs and Financial Structure
A cornerstone of the organization's community engagement is its annual conference, which has hosted prominent speakers such as Elizabeth Warren and Steve St. Angelo in 2016, and President Janet Murguía in 2019.
The funding model of the organization has shifted over time toward private support. Before 2000, the federal government provided roughly 25% of its funding. By 2015, the organization reported that 85% of its funding came from individuals, corporations, and foundations, with government contributions accounting for the remaining 15%.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Annual Revenue | $75.9 Million |
| Annual Expenses | $72.3 Million |
| Endowment | $140 Million |
| Primary Focus | Latino Nonprofit Advocacy |
| Headquarters | Washington, D.C. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name "La Raza" mean in the context of NCLR?
While "raza" typically translates to "race" in English, the NCLR used the phrase "La Raza" to refer to "the people" or "the Hispanic people of the New World" as a term of political activism and identity.
When did the organization change its name to UnidosUS?
The organization officially announced its name change from the National Council of La Raza to UnidosUS on July 10, 2017.
Who is the current leader of UnidosUS?
Janet Murguía has served as the President and CEO of the organization since January 1, 2005.
How is UnidosUS funded?
The organization relies heavily on private funding. As of 2015, 85% of its support came from foundations, corporations, and individuals, while 15% was provided by the government.
What are the primary policy goals of UnidosUS?
UnidosUS advocates for progressive public policy, specifically focusing on immigration reform, reducing deportations, and creating a path to citizenship for young people brought to the U.S. illegally.