NACOPRW GOES TO PHILLY!

The National Puerto Rican Agenda (NPRA) held its 2024 Biennial Convention in Philadelphia, PA.

The annual NPRA convention kicked off its two-day agenda with its registration and welcoming reception at Taller Puertorriqueño with welcoming remarks by Nilda Ruiz, NPRA National President, special remarks by Connecticut State Representative Minnie Gonzalez, a Junte Boricua presentation by Pedro Zorrilla, CEO at GFR Media, and wrapping the first day at Teatro Esperanza with comedian, playwright, storyteller: Che Guerrero.

On day two, the convention attendees spent a full day at the Esperanza Arts Center, commencing the morning with opening remarks by the Convention Chair, Jimmy Torres-Velez, followed with a welcome prayer by Rev. Luis Cortés and special remarks by Chris Soto, Senior Advisor to US Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona.

First panel discussion:  Impact and Best Practices of Boricua-led Non-Profit Organizations: Implementing strategies in growing communities was moderated by the Senior Advisor to the US Secretary of Education and included distinguished panelist from the Puerto Rican Studies and Educational Opportunities in the US, University of Central Florida, Centro at the City University of New York, and the University of Connecticut.

The rest of the day included a schedule of outstanding guest panelists, and special guest speaker Frankie Miranda, President of the Hispanic Federation shared information about the State of Puerto Rican Voters in the Diaspora.  The panelists included organizations from Inquilinos Boricua en Accíon; Esperanza de Philadelphia; Hispanic Association of Contractors (HACE); Asociación de Puertorriqueño en Marcha (APM); and the Puerto Rican Cultural Center of Chicago with an amazing presentation by José Lopez.

The afternoon plenary session provided an opportunity for NPRA active members in good-standing with voting privileges.  The assembly was facilitated by Parliamentarian, Martin Perez, Esq.  Delegates nominated and elected the NPRA Executive Leadership for the upcoming two years.  Nilda Ruiz was re-elected to serve as the National NPRA Chair for the upcoming two-year term.