Young, Shining Stars from Waterbury Recognized

January 23, 2025

We are dealing with some dangerously cold weather for an extended period of time. The governor activated the cold weather protocol. Read below to learn how you can help someone who needs a warm place to stay.

I had the pleasure of speaking to more than 30 students from Waterbury, many of whom are Latino, who traveled to the State Capitol for the first time. I'll break down why their visit was so important and how it could lead to more Latino activism.

Organizers recognized 30 of the most talented Afro-Latinos in Connecticut who are 30 years old or younger! I'll share the stories of three young women from Waterbury who are already making a huge difference.

You will find the following sections below:

  • Severe Cold Weather Protocol
  • Students Visit State Capitol
  • Afro-Latino 30 Under 30 
 
Severe Cold Weather Protocol
The state’s severe cold weather protocol is in effect now through Saturday at noon due to the dangerously frigid air in Connecticut. The protocol gives our most vulnerable an opportunity to find a warm place. 
State agencies and municipalities coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to make sure that anyone in need can receive shelter.
 
Call 2-1-1 to get connected to vital services or visit 211ct.org to view a list of locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary. 
More information here
 
Students Visit State Capitol
It was an honor to welcome and speak to dozens of adult education and ESL students during their first-ever visit to the State Capitol. Meeting these dedicated individuals was a reminder of the power of education and the importance of inclusivity in our democratic process.
I had the pleasure of addressing these students in Spanish, sharing my story in hopes of inspiring them to achieve their dreams. During the visit, I explained that House Democrats listen to everyone’s voice and that their participation can play a vital role in shaping our government. It was incredible to see their curiosity and enthusiasm as they learned about how we make laws and how they can contribute to the process.
This visit was not just an opportunity to educate – it was a celebration of their commitment to learning and growth. I look forward to seeing these individuals continue to thrive and make a difference in Waterbury and perhaps one day in the state legislature.
 
Afro-Latino 30 Under 30 
Connecticut’s youngest ambassadors were shining bright at the Afro-Latino 30 Under 30 recognition event in Waterbury. Organizers honored 30 individuals from the entire state who are 30 years old or younger who are doing extraordinary things in the community through their talents, ideas, and platforms.
Jessica Coyt, Cristy Roso, Alahaniss López-Zea, myself
Three young women from Waterbury were selected for this prestigious award. Jessica Coyt is studying at Boston University while working as a part-time literacy program instructor at a nearby public school. Cristy Roso is a student at Brown University working as a tutoring coordinator at a nonprofit that supports historically disadvantaged students. Alahaniss López-Zea is at Quinnipiac University Law School and actively takes part in the Human Trafficking Prevention Project and Latinx Law Student Association.
I am so proud of these incredible young women and the rest of the group, who are all eager to make a huge difference. They are more than deserving of this award, and I can’t wait to see the wonderful work they will undertake to improve our state and country!