HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 91-4634, by Representatives O'Brien, Locke, Wineberry, Anderson, Prentice, Ballard, Hine, Winsley, Miller, Heavey, Ebersole, Rassmussen, Beck, Dellwo, Wang and Leonard

     WHEREAS, El Centro de la Raza was founded October 11, 1972, under extremely difficult conditions, with no resources and a decaying abandoned building; and

     WHEREAS, El Centro de la Raza not only survived these difficult times but, due to the courage and commitment of many individuals has become the largest and longest surviving Chicano/Latino organization in the state of Washington; and

     WHEREAS, El Centro de la Raza has received national and international awards for its role in promoting peace and friendship between citizens of the United States and other nations; and

     WHEREAS, El Centro de la Raza provides a variety of services from infant care to programs for the elderly, and has recently been nominated by the City of Seattle for a national award for its innovative housing program; and

     WHEREAS, El Centro de la Raza strives to build broad-based coalitions to confront social problems and develop cultural, economic, and intellectual betterment for people who live in poverty; and

     WHEREAS, These coalitions include the Minority Executive Directors Coalition of King County, the Human Services Coalition, the Rainbow Coalition, child care coalitions, and peace and justice coalitions; and

     WHEREAS, El Centro de la Raza is an oasis of hope, for people of all walks of life, who want to unite and be a part of creating peace, justice, and equality, for our society today, and for generations yet to come;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the State of Washington honor El Centro de la Raza and call to the attention of all citizens of the State of Washington this organization's accomplishments and goals in furthering programs not only for the benefit of people in the Latino/Chicano community, but for people  of all races in order for them to enjoy a better way of life; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives commend Roberto Maestas, Executive Director of El Centro de la Raza and one of the original founders, for his untiring efforts, dedication, and leadership in behalf of the organization, and for his life commitment to helping others lead happier and more meaningful lives; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to Roberto Maestas, Executive Director of El Centro de la Raza, and members of the staff.

I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of Resolution 4634 adopted by the House of Representatives March 15, 1991.

________________________________                 ______________________________

   Alan Thompson, Chief Clerk,                                    John L. O'Brien,

    House of Representatives                                       Speaker Pro Tempore