Latinos in United States Conflicts
Buford
Velazquez
Even in the early days of our history, people from Latin America and those of Hispanic heritage participated in U.S. armed conflicts. It is estimated that 100,000 Latinos fought in the U.S. Civil War. One debated, but fascinating case is that of Loreta Janeta Velazuez, who was born in Cuba. After the war she wrote a biography, which was verified by numbers of witnesses. She told how she enlisted in 1860, masquerading as Lt. Harry Buford, and fought in numbers of battles. Her gender was discovered on two occasions and she was dismissed, only to reenlist.
Many thousands of Latinos have fought in U.S. wars in the 20th and 21st centuries. A summary and examples of Latino participation in 20th and 21st Century conflicts is contained in an article published last May in Salud America!
Montgomery County Chooses ACLAMO
At a news conference on Friday, May 22, Dr. Valerie Arkoosh, Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners, announced that ACLAMO Family Centers has been awarded a contract to work with the County and three other community organizations in COVID-19 contact tracing.
Dr Valerie Arkoosh
Dr. Arkoosh stated, “The County and our Office of Public Health contact tracing team is partnering with four trusted, Montgomery County-based nonprofit organizations who have a long history of working with county residents of all ages, races, and backgrounds. ACLAMO, Family Services of Montgomery County, Montgomery County OIC, and Visiting Nurses Association Community Services will all employ highly trained and skilled contact tracers to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community.
“Long before COVID-19, these organizations have been working with Montgomery County residents on the ground level. Their staff are caring and compassionate professionals and they have extensive experience in working with county residents during difficult times. Through COVID-19 contact tracing, they will not only help stop the spread of disease, but will also ensure that those individuals and families who are impacted will get the support and services they need to stay safe and healthy.
“These organizations are fully equipped to reach our many diverse communities throughout the county, and they will play a vital role in our fight against COVID-19.”
ACLAMO Executive Director and CEO Nelly Jiménez is enthusiastic.
“Contact tracing is a key strategy to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As the only full service organization for Latinos in Montgomery County, ACLAMO has 43 years of experience in providing social, educational and health and wellness services. Our bilingual and bicultural staff is ready to start and is excited by this opportunity. ACLAMO builds a stronger community one child and one family at a time. This is ACLAMO!
Tracing and Lots More
During this time of coronavirus, ACLAMO staff members are working 24/7 not only to trace the virus, but to also to provide vital services to the Latino community in education, health and social services. Your support is needed to continue to meet these important needs. Please give generously.
All good things come to an end and Chaddsford Winery´s generous gift offer is no exception. This offer is extended to donors who give at the $500 level or above on or before May 31. Details of this special offer are found at this link.
