The sound of shovels hitting the dirt signifies a new beginning for the Colonia residents of San Carlos. La Union del Pueblo Entero community organizer, Marcela, joins the families at the ground breaking ceremony as they witness the fruits of their labor flourish with the start of the stormwater drainage project. Countless door to door visits to gather signatures for their petition, led community leaders in the San Carlos Colonia to this milestone–marking the end of knee high flooding levels and another resolution resolved!
This story, and many alike, are a part of a movement for transformative change led by L.U.P.E members in the RGV. Through the years, community members in Colonias have led significant changes in their communities, from Hidalgo to Cameron County. They have navigated Commissioners' courts and gained the confidence to stand and advocate for their basic human right to adequate living conditions in their Colonias. With the support of our dedicated L.U.P.E community organizers, members hold elected officials responsible for the safety concerns of their constituents outside city limits.
Organizing moments like these chart the course to huge occasions like our biennial Cumbre de Colonias event. For decades, L.U.P.E Colonia members from all over the RGV gather to fill our infamous San Juan Salon with distinguished waves of red. Members’ voices echo and bounce off the walls where history continues to be rewritten as they discuss important issues prominent in our community ranging from an urgent need for infrastructure in disenfranchised communities to immigration reforms. The Cumbre de Colonias is the place where issues turn into resolutions.
The 2022 Cumbre de Colonias was no different, and on October 21st, L.U.P.E members passed 8 resolutions which highlighted the priorities the community would focus on for the next two years. Below is a list of the resolutions and their progress so far.
Immigration Reform
Since 2022, LUPE has continued to advocate for the rights of hard working immigrant families along the border. From Brownsville to the steps of Austin, community activists have marched to ensure that no racist, anti-immigrant bills or laws are passed. In 2024, the Biden administration took a step in the right direction by providing relief to millions of immigrant families, thanks to the hard work of immigrant rights activists. However, there is much work to be done. Families deserve to live without fear of being stripped away from their loved ones, and we are committed to continuing the fight for security, safety, and freedom for ALL immigrants living in the United States.
Public Lighting
In 2024, the residents of Colonia Salida Del Sol saw the fruits of their labor flourish thanks to their incredible community organizing efforts! Thanks to LUPE members and neighbors like Monce, Daisy, and Monica working together, public street lights now shine in their neighborhood, allowing families to go out for walks and play together at night.
At LUPE, we are committed to working with our members through the process of petitioning and organizing for the betterment of their communities. We believe that each and every one of us has the power to join the collective power and strength of our Pueblo. We know the community's needs, and it's up to us to hold officials accountable for necessary funding. Together, we can create positive change and build a brighter future for all.
Safety in Colonias
In 2023, Residents of Earling Estates in Edinburg Precinct 4 took the initiative to meet with the Sheriff's Department to become certified under the Neighborhood Watch Program. This step comes in response to various reports of theft in their community. The lack of adequate infrastructure, such as public lighting, creates a playground for these individuals. By becoming certified, residents are taking proactive measures to enhance the safety and security of their neighborhood.
Adequate Drainage
On April 2023, residents of San Carlos Colonia successfully addressed their drainage issues after their collective efforts. Neighbors went door-to-door to gather signatures for their petition, demonstrating a unified demand for improvements. The persistence and organization of the community amongst neighbors, led to this milestone– a testament to the power of community solidarity. Thanks to their dedication, San Carlos Colonia is now on the path to improved infrastructure and enhanced quality of life.
Health Care Access
LUPE is dedicated to enhancing health services for families along the border through various initiatives. The organization regularly hosts health fairs, providing access to essential medical services and information. In collaboration with Amber Health, LUPE has donated basic hygiene products to support community well-being. Additionally, LUPE partners with Planned Parenthood to offer emergency contraceptives, condoms, and educational resources. They also celebrate Mother's Day by organizing events with women's health clinics throughout the Rio Grande Valley, promoting health awareness and accessible care for all.
Cleaner Colonias
LUPE colonia community members and organizers are at the forefront of the movement to maintain clean neighborhoods. In response to issues like illegal dumping in alleys and on roadsides, residents have come together to petition county officials, advocating for sustained cleaning services. Their collective efforts emphasize the importance of providing children with a safe and healthy environment free from hazardous trash. By addressing these issues, LUPE helps ensure that colonia communities have cleaner, safer spaces that protect against harmful damage and promote overall well-being.
Driving Permits
LUPE members are actively advocating against harmful, racist laws that target and racially profile border residents on the road. Legislation like HB7 and SB4 unjustly criminalizes community members for activities as simple as giving their family members a ride. Recognizing the profound impact on families, LUPE community leaders have mobilized, taking their concerns to the Texas Capitol to voice strong opposition to these bills. Additionally, they hold local officials accountable for supporting anti-immigrant legislation, striving to ensure that all community members are treated with dignity and respect.
Safer Streets
Community members in the Colonias are leading significant change, addressing critical issues like damaged roads. These roads pose safety risks to pedestrians and hazardous driving conditions, often leading to accidents. Through persistent and united efforts, residents like those in the Colonia Loma Linda have achieved remarkable progress. After two decades without adequate paved roads, they finally experienced smooth streets in 2023. This success story highlights the power of community organizing and the positive impact that collective action can have on improving quality of life in the Colonias.
At the heart of L.U.P.E's movement is the unwavering commitment of our members, who are determined to create an environment where their families can thrive in pursuit of a better quality of life. Our victories, like the recent successes in addressing infrastructure, healthcare access, and safety in Colonias, prove that when we unite across race and background, we can overcome any challenge. Just as our ancestors joined together during the United Farmworkers Union, to advocate for the rights of migrant farmworkers, we too are coming together to build with opportunity for everyone.
Don't miss our 2024 Cumbre de Miembros, a platform that embodies the spirit of unity for all members, regardless of background, zip code, or class. Stay connected with us on social media for the latest updates, and join us in making the Rio Grande Valley a place where we can ALL thrive.