Mayor Walsh honored with NCLR Capital Award

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Mayor Martin J. Walsh was honored tonight at the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) 30th Annual Capital Awards Gala. Mayor Walsh was recognized as a leader in a ceremony that highlighted elected officials who promote policies and legislation that positively impacts the Latino community. Mayor Walsh received the 2017 Capital Award for his efforts to promote the safety and unity of all families in the face of anti-immigrant threats. Mayor Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles and strategist Ana Navarro also received awards. NCLR President and CEO Janet Murguía honored the awardees.

"I want to thank Chairwoman Renata Soto, President Janet Murguía and the National Council of La Raza for this incredible honor. I am humbled to accept this award," said Mayor Walsh. "Boston would not be the world-class city it is today if it weren't for the generations of immigrants who built and shaped our city. We can never turn our backs on people who come here for a better life, and here in Boston, we recognize that diversity is our greatest strength. We have amazing diversity in our Latino community and beyond, and I am proud to fight for the voices and rights of all people."

"This past January, the Department of Homeland Security sent shockwaves through our community when they issued a memo that would allow for the indiscriminate targeting of many in our community," said President Murguía. "Mayor Walsh and Mayor Garcetti were among the bold leaders who took a stand against this cruel and unnecessary policy -- choosing to fight politics of division with understanding and common sense. Their actions served as an example of courageous leadership and a much-needed reminder that our country's values should be the driving force behind governing."

In addition to Mayor Walsh's vocal support and protection of the immigrant community, Boston's robust Office for Immigrant Advancement (MOIA) provides daily services to Boston's immigrants, many of whom are part of the Latino community. The Office for Immigrant Advancement works to support English language classes, naturalization services and free immigration consultations with volunteer attorneys.

Erika Gonzalez, anchor at NBC4 Washington, served as mistress of ceremonies at the gala, which took place at the National Building Museum. AARP and Wells Fargo served as event Co-Chairs. Vice Chairs for Capital Awards included BP America Inc., Charter Communications, Univision Communications, Inc. and UPS.

NCLR-the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States-works to build a stronger America by creating opportunities for Latinos. For more information on NCLR, please visit the NCLR website.