Gallego at LULAC’s 2026 National Convention: “I’m a proud Latino and a proud American”

FORT WORTH – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Ruben Gallego (D‑AZ) spoke at LULAC’s 2026 National Convention to open their Welcome Celebration. See below for excerpts from his speech: “I’m a proud Latino and a proud American. Those things do not fight each other, they fuel each other. Being a proud Latino in the highest office government isn’t a rejection of American values. It is the ultimate expression of love for this country and also absolute belief in its promise for the future. Our culture, our music, our deep devotion to our family, our unstoppable work ethic is not a sideshow. It is the main event. It is a core strength of this nation,” said Senator Gallego . “When we, and our culture– whether it’s neighborhood food trucks, to artists like Bad Bunny–start breaking into the mainstream, that’s when we start seeing the best of America. That is a reminder that America is more vibrant, more prosperous, and stronger because of us.” “So yes, we advocate to make sure Latinos are educated, because if Latino kids aren’t educated, then the country is not educated. Yes, we make sure to fight so that our Latino men have an opportunity to build a business and bring wealth to their families and to their communities, because if Latinos are poor, then this country is also poor. And yes, we want to make sure Latinas continue to lead in new business starts, because if Latinos aren’t starting business, then this country is not growing at all,” the Senator also said. “LULAC, family, mi familia, as we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, let’s carry this truth with us: standing up for our rights, fighting for our dignity, and demanding that we be treated with respect is an act of deep and profound love for our country. We are making this country better by holding it accountable to its own promise.” Click here to view the recap video. This past year, Senator Gallego has also spoken at UnidosUS’ Prosperity Forward Convening and the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals’ 2026 Homeownership & Housing Policy Conference .