20 Years of Amplifying Latinos
Latino workers in Rhode Island earn less, advance less, and face more barriers to economic stability than their non-Latino counterparts. These are not individual problems. They are the result of policy failures LPI is working to fix.
Who We Are
The Latino Policy Institute (LPI) is dedicated to advancing equity and opportunity for Latinos in Rhode Island and beyond. Founded two decades ago, we bring community voices to the forefront of policy-making, ensuring decisions reflect the real experiences of those most impacted.
0 %
Population of Rhode Island is Latino
$ 0 m
Multilingual Learner (MLL) funding for English learners
Our Mission
LPI stimulates public policy discourse by examining and communicating the evolving Latino experiences in Rhode Island.
Our Vision
LPI is advancing systemic change so that all Latinos in Rhode Island achieve social, civic, and economic equity.
What We Do
Research
LPI provides research, data, and perspectives that elevate the strengths and contributions of Rhode Island’s Latino communities, while also drawing attention to the inequities these communities continue to face.
Advocacy
LPI advocates for policies, legislation, and systemic change to make Rhode Island more equitable for Latinos.
Voice
LPI amplifies the voice of the Latino community ensuring that it is heard and meaningfully centered in decision-making.
Meet Our Team
Our dedicated team and board bring diverse expertise and shared passion to our work. We’re committed to advocating for lasting, equitable change.
Marcela Betancur
Marcela Betancur, Latino Policy Institute’s executive director, brings to the position a wide range of experience in key areas of LPI research and advocacy – including housing, education, civil liberties and workforce development.
Awilda Reinoso López
Awilda Reinoso López holds her Bachelor’s in Economics from Clark University and a Masters in Urban Education Policy from Brown University.
Yarisa Díaz
Yarisa Díaz earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Education Studies from Brandeis University. During her time at Brandeis, she served as a Peer Mentor and a member of the MLK Fellowship Advisory Board where she actively fostered community and organized events for first-generation students.
Conoce a nuestra junta directiva
Our dedicated team and board bring diverse expertise and shared passion to our work. We’re committed to advocating for lasting, equitable change.
Juanita Montes de Oca
Rachel Flum
Antioneta Falconi
Yahaira Reyes
Omar Reyes
Gonzalo Cuervo
Lehidy Frias
Maggie Chung
Our History & Milestones
For nearly 20 years, LPI has stood alongside Rhode Island’s Latino communities, celebrating victories, confronting challenges, and paving the way for progress. From policy wins to impactful research, explore the journey that brought us here.
Join Our Team
Passionate about advocacy, equity, and community change? We’re always looking for talented people to join our growing team and support our mission.