Latino Leadership: building a humanistic and diverse society Liderazgo Latino: edificando una sociedad humanistica y diversa.(Statistical Data Included)

Executive Summary

This article describes a collective, people centered view of leadership that grows out of Latino history and core values, and is responsive to the challenges Latino leaders face today.

Three dynamics are noted that position Latinos for Leadership. Personalismo is the individual preparation needed to earn the trust and respect of followers. Tejando Lazos (weaving connections) describes leaders as story tellers, keepers of cultural memory, weavers, and dream makers; third, skills such as understanding the social change process, communicating strategically, and acting as "community scholars" allows Latino leaders to forge consensus and encourage collective action.

The author contends that Latino leaders, because of their inherent diversity and humanistic values, are strategically poised to help create a culturally accessible and compassionate society that values people and community before material wealth and individual advancement.

**********

 
La Cultura Es Central - Culture Is Central 
 
La Raza Cosmica - The Cosmic Race 
* Confianza -- Trust 
* Respeto -- Respect 
* Being Simpatico -- Being Congenial 
 
Three Dynamics of Latino Leadership 
 
Personalismo -- Preparing Oneself 
1. Conciencia -- Self-Awareness 
* Destino -- Destiny 
 
2. Consistencia -- Following Through 
* Compromiso de por Vida -- A Life-long Commitment 
* Arduo Trabajo y Determinacion -- Hard Work and Determination 
 
3. Compasion y Servicio -- Compassion and Service 
* Servicio: A sus Ordenes -- Service: Tending to your Needs 
* Sentimientos y Pasion -- Feelings and Passion 
* Generosidad -- Generosity 
 
Tejiendo Lazos -- Weaving Connections 
1. Continuidad- Continuity 
* Tradicion y Raices-- Historical Perspective 
* Entendiendo los Tiempos -- Understanding the Times 
* El Futuro: Vision--The Future: Vision 
 
2. Edificando la Comunidad -- Building the Community 
* La Familia -- The Family 
* La Raza -- The People 
 
3. Celebracion -- Celebration 
* La Fiesta/Gozar la Vida -- Enjoying Life 
* Fe y Espiritualidad -- Faith and Spirituality 
 
Desarollando Abilidades-Developing Skills 
1. Comunicacion -- Communication 
* Saber Es Poder -- Knowledge Is Power 
 
2. Consenso -- Fostering Unity and Consensus 
* Cruzando Puentes y Fomentando Alianzas -- 
Crossing Over and Fostering Partnerships 
 
3. Cambio Social--Social Change 
* No hablo Ingles Solamente -- "I Don't Speak English Only" 
* La Causa -- The Cause 
* De Colores -- Of Many Colors 

Like a ripe avocado ready for tasty guacamole, Latinos are coming of age. Emerging from a fusion of different races, cultural experiences and historical clashes, they are beginning to define their dynamic flavor and spread their cultural influence. For the Latino community to reach its potential, however, authentic and visionary leaders must come forth to unify Latinos and forge a collective identity.