HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — As schools finish up for the year, a lot of students have been going on special field trips for an experience outside of the classroom. Let’s go to Hartford, where Latinas took part in a special day to celebrate their culture.
Latinas in leadership CEO Marilyn Alverio joined forces with her sisters around Connecticut to make for a special day.

“It really is about celebrating what we call “Comadreship,” which is that sisterhood. That place, you don’t have to explain yourself. Where you have to really feel confident that you’re understood, you’re heard, and you have a place where you can land,” Marilyn Cruz-Aponte, board chairwoman for Latinas in Leadership, said Hundreds of women, business and school leaders, and students from around the state took a day out of the classroom for the Latinas in Leadership Symposium for workshops, speakers, networking, and celebration.

“Today I’m here with nine of my high school students who will be participating at the event, and I just want my girls to be inspired to be surrounded by other Latinas in our state,” Dr. Madeline Negron, superintendent of schools in New Haven, said.

While networking and learning are the key takeaways, the real goal is that all these people will share their personal stories and truly celebrate where they come from.

“Its motivating and inspiring to be here and see all these Latinas, as well as myself. It’s inspiring,” Elisa Perez, a senior at the Metropolitan Business Academy, said.

Connecting students with mentors, shaping a path to grow in Connecticut without losing those Latina roots.

“So many people feel like they don’t have a voice, and events like this bring people together to remind them they’re not alone and collectively they do have a voice,” Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas said.

Anchored in the theme "Atrévete… Because Representation Matters," the largest Latina organization of its kind in the Northeast marks a new chapter with an identity-centered mission, an expanded ecosystem, and a landmark annual event.

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