LOS ANGELES - The National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) issued the following statement regarding President-Elect Obama’s selection of Ms. Cecilia Muñoz to serve as Director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs:

“The National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO), the nation’s preeminent Latino leadership organization, congratulates Ms. Cecilia Muñoz, National Council of La Raza (NCLR) Senior Vice President for the Office of Research, Advocacy, and Legislation on her appointment by President-Elect Obama to serve as Director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.  As Director, Ms. Muñoz assumes a key position in the new administration, and her skills and experience will help the White House strengthen its relationship with the more than 6,000 Latino elected and appointed officials from across the country.  NALEO commends President-Elect Obama on this important appointment and the opportunity it provides for an effective partnership with nation’s Latino elected leadership on the issues facing all Americans.

“Born in Detroit, Michigan to immigrants from Bolivia, Ms. Muñoz has served for more than two decades as a true champion for America’s newcomers and the Latino community.  As Senior Vice President at NCLR, Ms. Muñoz supervised all legislative and advocacy activities conducted by NCLR policy staff, including its efforts to pass comprehensive immigration reform legislation. 

“Ms. Muñoz has also served as board member for several non-profit advocacy and research organizations that address immigration and Latino issues.  She currently is the Chair of the Board of Center for Community Change, and serves on the U.S. Programs Board of the Open Society Institute and the Board of Directors of the Atlantic Philanthropies.  In June 2000, she was awarded a MacArthur Foundation fellowship in recognition of her work on immigration and civil rights.  In addition, Ms. Munoz is an accomplished author, who has published numerous works on immigration, the Latino vote, and labor issues.

“Ms. Muñoz’ appointment demonstrates the growing recognition that exceptionally-qualified Latinos are ready to serve the new Administration in a wide range of positions, and that their skills and experience will enrich America’s governance.  Her appointment continues to underscore the tremendous contributions that Latinos are making in public service and demonstrates the wealth of talent Latinos bring to our country’s top executive posts. NALEO looks forward to working with Ms. Muñoz’ and the Obama administration on the issues important to the Latino community and our entire nation.”