The Nebraska Commission on Latino Americans made it a priority to be present in Lexington during this critical time. We understand the gravity of the situation the community is facing following the Tyson plant closure, which has left many families in uncertainty and confronting challenges that are only beginning to unfold.
Our visit represents a first step in a broader effort to explore meaningful solutions and identify ways we can support the community in the most effective and responsible manner. While we recognize and deeply appreciate the many organizations already working diligently on the ground in Lexington, we believe it is essential to hear directly from the community we represent. Understanding their concerns firsthand allows us to advocate more effectively and coordinate our response with clarity and purpose.
For that reason, yesterday February 11th the Commission spent the day in Lexington hosting community forums and meetings, in partnership with the Lexington Public Library and with the support of Rocio Casanova, Jennifer Norton and local leaders. These spaces allowed us to listen, engage, and begin gathering the information necessary to determine next steps.
We are deeply grateful to the community members who shared their experiences with honesty and courage. The Commission remains committed to continuing this work and to standing alongside our Latino community in Lexington as we move forward together.