TLC Statement Opposing Price-Setting Under Inflation Reduction Act
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 24, 2025
Contact: Carlos Orta
cotra@thelatinocoalition.com
Washington DC – The Latino Coalition stands firmly against government-mandated price-setting provisions embedded in President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). We acknowledge the importance of addressing rising healthcare costs, however, this policy threatens innovation and economic growth, particularly within the Latino community. By granting the federal government the power to impose drug prices under the guise of “voluntary” negotiations, the law unfortunately creates an environment of coercion that undermines the free market principles that small businesses rely on to thrive.
Small businesses in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors are particularly vulnerable to the cascading effects of these policies. The pharmaceutical industry’s ecosystem relies on innovation driven by private investment, which spurs economic growth and sustains local economies. Price controls diminish incentives for crucial research & development (R&D), leading to fewer drugs and reduced demand for suppliers, manufacturers, and service providers, many of which are small businesses. For Latino entrepreneurs, who are already navigating systemic challenges, these policies create additional barriers to growth and opportunity. This is why we oppose this strategy and the current list of drugs released by CMS for IPAY.
The Latino Coalition Congratulates Former Florida United States Senator Marco Rubio on his Appointment as United States Secretary of State
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 24, 2025
Contact: Carlos Orta
cotra@thelatinocoalition.com
Washington, D.C. — The Latino Coalition proudly congratulates former United States Senator Marco Rubio on his historic appointment as the 72nd U.S. Secretary of State. A proven leader with a distinguished career in public service, Secretary Rubio becomes the first Latino to hold this prestigious role, a landmark moment for the Latino community and the nation.
Throughout his career, Secretary Rubio has championed American values on the global stage. As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, he spearheaded initiatives to strengthen alliances, promote economic partnerships, and uphold human rights. His expertise and commitment will undoubtedly enhance U.S. diplomacy and ensure our nation remains a beacon of freedom and opportunity.
“Marco Rubio’s appointment is a testament to his unwavering dedication to advancing America’s interests at home and abroad,” said Carlos F. Orta, President & CEO, The Latino Coalition. “As a Cuban American, his story reflects the promise of the American Dream, and his leadership will inspire future generations. His deep understanding of foreign policy, human rights, and his love of democracy will serve our nation well in these challenging times.”
The Latino Coalition stands ready to support Secretary Rubio as he embarks on this new chapter in his storied career. We are confident that his leadership will advance America’s values and interests, foster stronger international alliances, and promote peace and prosperity worldwide.
The Latino Coalition to Host Inaugural Brunch Celebration in Washington, D.C.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 13, 2025
Contact: Carlos Orta
corta@thelatinocoalition.com
The Latino Coalition to Host Inaugural Brunch Celebration in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. – The Latino Coalition (TLC) proudly announces its Inaugural Brunch
Celebration, to be held on Monday, January 20, 2025, at the Hilton Washington, DC Capitol Hill,
located at 525 New Jersey Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20001.
This bipartisan event marks an exciting tradition, bringing together leaders from the public, private,
and nonprofit sectors to honor and celebrate the contributions of the Latino community in shaping
America’s future as we celebrate the Nation’s 60th Inaugural.
“This celebration is aligned with TLC’s ongoing mission to champion economic empowerment,
educational advancement, and civic engagement within the Latino community, highlighting
initiatives and partnerships that inspire growth and innovation.” Stated Michael Fernandez, Vice
President, Veme Media and newly elected TLC Board Chair.
The celebration will offer TLC’s members, corporate members and alliance partners an opportunity
to come together as the Nation celebrates the 60th Presidential Inauguration on the steps of the
U.S. Capitol.
The event is made possible by the generous support of corporate members and alliance partners
including Comcast and T-Mobile at the Presidential level, Google and R.J. Reynolds at the
Senatorial level, and Fulcrum Public Affairs, Hispanics in Energy, and Inca Kola at the
Congressional sponsorship level.
“The Inaugural Brunch Celebration is not just an event—it’s a testament to the incredible influence
and contributions of the Latino community. We are honored to unite our sponsors, community
partners, and advocates in a collective effort to build a stronger, more inclusive future.” Said Carlos
F. Orta, President & CEO, The Latino Coalition.
In addition to our sponsors, The Latino Coalition is proud to partner with other prominent Latino
organizations, including: Hispanic100, the National Association of Hispanic Publishers (NAHP),
and the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC).
Inaugural Brunch Details:
• Date: Monday, January 20, 2025
• Time: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
• Location: Hilton Washington, DC Capitol Hill, located at 525 New Jersey Avenue, NW,
Washington, DC 20001
TLC’s Inaugural brunch celebration will be an unforgettable event of collaboration and commitment
to uplifting the Latino business community and celebration of this country’s 60th Inaugural, where
President Donald J. Trump will become the country’s 47th President.
Media Contact:
• Carlos F. Orta, President & CEO, The Latino Coalition
• Phone: 202-664-9798
• Email Address: corta@thelatinocoalition.com
The Latino Coalition Welcomes Michael Fernandez as New Board Chair and Announces Board Updates
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 10, 2025
Contact: Carlos Orta
corta@thelatinocoalition.com
Washington, D.C. – The Latino Coalition (TLC) proudly announces the election of Michael Fernandez, Vice President of Marketing & People at V-Me Media, Inc., as its new Board Chair. It also welcomes a newly elected board member: Mrs. Joanna Diaz-Soffer, Vice President at T-Mobile.
Re-elected to TLC’s executive committee are CiCi Rojas, Vice Chair and Omar Franco, Secretary. Additionally, Jeanne Ibañez Payne, Rafael Cuellar, and Ruben Maciel were re-elected as Board members, continuing their dedicated service to the organization.
TLC extends its gratitude to retiring Board members Mara Cohara, Partner at Lathrop GPM, and Dr. Alfonso E. Pino III, M.D., of Allied Anesthesia Associates, for their invaluable contributions during their time on the TLC Board. Former TLC Board Chair Jeanette Prenger will remain on the Board for one term, serving as Immediate Past Chair.
“I am deeply honored and grateful for the trust my fellow Board members have placed in me by electing me as Chair,” said Michael Fernandez, TLC’s new Board Chair. “As we enter 2025, The Latino Coalition marks a momentous milestone—our 30th anniversary. This year, we honor our legacy while looking ahead with renewed energy and commitment to empowering Latino businesses to grow and thrive.”
TLC would like to express its sincerest “Thank You” to Jeanette Prenger, who served as Chair of the Board from 2020 until December 2024. Under her leadership, TLC continues executing on its mission, created new programs and initiatives, became more flexible and nimbler as a result of the hardships due to Covid-19, hired a new CEO, elected new board members, and began working on the organization’s milestone anniversary and rebranding.
This year, TLC will celebrate its 30th anniversary! The year will kick off with an Inaugural Brunch Celebration on January 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C. TLC will also host a Legislative Summit in the spring and in the fall, TLC will host its Latina Prosperity Summit and a 30th Anniversary Celebration Reception, both will take place during Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations in Washington, DC.
Carlos F. Orta, TLC’s President & CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the organization’s future and its board leaders, stating, “On behalf of The Latino Coalition, I congratulate all our Board members on their election and re-election. The team and I are excited to collaborate with our Board, Corporate
The Latino Coalition Appoints Carlos F. Orta as its next President & CEO to Lead its Business-Driven Mission
Contact: CiCi Rojas
crojas@thelatinocoalition.com
August 29,2024
Washington, D.C. – The Latino Coalition (TLC), the foremost advocacy and membership organization for Latino entrepreneurs and Fortune 500 companies, is pleased to announce Carlos F. Orta as its new President and CEO.
Founded in 1995, TLC promotes economic opportunities and growth for Hispanic businesses across the United States. Carlos brings an extensive background from his leadership roles at Fortune 500 companies, including Anheuser-Busch, Carnival Corporation, Ford Motor Company, Tyson Foods, and Waste Management. His expertise spans nonprofit management, government and external relations, communications, philanthropy, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I).
From 2006 to 2014, Carlos served as President & CEO of the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR), where he significantly increased revenues, doubled corporate memberships, initiated five new programs, and established a $1.3 million endowment, among other achievements.
“On behalf of TLC’s Board of Directors, we are excited to welcome Carlos as our new CEO,” said Jeanette Prenger, TLC Board Chair and CEO of Ecco Select, a minority- and woman-owned business established in 1995. “Carlos has been a relentless advocate for Hispanic inclusion and has significantly contributed to the growth of Latino community organizations nationwide for over two decades.”
As we approach our 30th anniversary in 2025, Carlos’ leadership will be instrumental in enhancing current programs and introducing new legislative initiatives to support U.S. Hispanic businesses and our corporate partnerships,” stated CiCi Rojas, TLC’s Managing Director, and CEO of Tico Productions.
“I am honored to join TLC during this important time,” said Carlos F. Orta. “I look forward to collaborating with the Board of Directors, our members, and the team to enhance and expand current TLC programs, while ensuring we continue to
serve and empower U.S. Hispanic businesses, entrepreneurs, and Fortune 500 companies that invest in the U.S. Hispanic community.”
For media inquiries, please contact:
CiCi Rojas
Board Director
816-721-7571
crojas@thelatinocoalition.com
The Latino Coalition Proudly Partners with TelevisaUnivision to Empower Hispanic Voters to Get Out to Vote with the “Vota Conmigo” New Edition Campaign
[Washington, DC] – [April 29] – The Latino Coalition, the leading advocacy and membership organization for U.S. Hispanic businesses, is proud to announce its partnership with TelevisaUnivision for the new edition of the Vota Conmigo campaign aimed at providing educational tools and resources to motivate every eligible Hispanic U.S. citizen to participate in the electoral process and cast their vote during this year’s election cycle.
“Given all the important issues that impact the U.S. Hispanic community, it is important for our community – 62.1 million strong and representing almost 19% of the total U.S. population – to fully engage in the electoral process. It is one of the privileges of living in the United States, and our voices need to be heard,” said CiCi Rojas, President, The Latino Coalition.
To support educating Hispanic audiences on voter registration procedures, absentee ballot requests, and early voting opportunities, The Latino Coalition will collaborate with TelevisaUnivision by sharing information to all of its members between now and election day.
For more information about the Vota Conmigo campaign and The Latino Coalition’s involvement, please visit www.thelatinocoalition.com or Univision.com/VotaConmigo.
“Our Hispanic audiences in the communities we serve rely on us as a media company to deliver critical information and educational tools to help them make their decisions at the ballot box, and we want to ensure that they are fully equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to make their voices heard” said Teri Arvesu, Senior Vice President of Social Impact and Sustainability at TelevisaUnivision. “This collaboration symbolizes a collective commitment to democracy, empowerment and inclusion. We are honored and excited to partner with The Latino Coalition to help us expand our reach and amplify the ‘Vota Conmigo’ campaign.”
Media Contact: Carlos F. Orta, The Latino Coalition, 855-852-1995
About The Latino Coalition (TLC): TLC is the leading advocacy and membership organization for U.S. Hispanic businesses. We are a pro-free-market, bipartisan, national Hispanic business association with the goal of ensuring every Hispanic American who wants to start and grow a business has the opportunity and the right economic environment to do so.