Abrupt leadership changes led ALC to take a brief hiatus while restructuring the organization. Alma Izquierdo, ALC board president, has big plans for the organization, including a mothers’ support group and increased involvement in immigration reform.
“There are many people moving [to Chicago] on a regular basis, moving from places where they were discriminated against, where they were bullied, where they were kicked out of their homes,” Izquierdo. “They are looking for a safe place, they are looking for understanding.”
Izquierdo also wants to structure ALC so it can stay current and create a presence on a national level.
“I wanted to assure our community that we’re here and we’re still committed to them,” said Izquierdo.
The relaunch event opened with a cocktail reception followed by performances by Ashley Black, Claudia Martinez, Noemi Shah and Queer Tango Chicago. Comedienne Sandra Valls headlined the night, with slam poet C.C. Carter emceeing.
The L Stop and the Center on Halsted co-sponsored the event with ALC.
“The L Stop is proud to sponsor Amigas Latinas because they represent empowerment of women and represent different view points,” said Vivian Gonzalez, co-founder of The L Stop. “We’re Mexican ourselves, so it’s nice to represent another organization within the Latina community.”