Latino Democrats Launch Nonprofit in New York City

The volunteer group, founded in October 2025, aims to expand Latino political participation across the city's five boroughs.

Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Civic Engagement

Wide evening photograph of a New York City waterfront at blue hour, a steel bridge spanning the river beside brick and glass mid-rise buildings. — Latino Democrats of New York City launched as a 501(c)(4) nonprofit this month after growing from a volunteer group founded in October 2025 with nearly 200 members. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Latino Democrats of New York City has launched as a 501(c)(4) nonprofit after growing from a volunteer organizing group founded in October 2025. The group, with nearly 200 members, celebrated its new status with an inaugural reception in Long Island City, Queens on October 21.

Why it matters

Founder Jamey Battle said existing political organizations were not led by or built for Latinos, which he cited as the reason for creating the group. Latinos account for 2.2 million eligible voters in New York State and are the largest ethnic and racial group after white voters, according to the stub's figures.

The group reports nearly 200 members, while Latinos represent 2.2 million eligible voters in New York State. The figures do not indicate how many of those voters are currently registered or active in local elections.

The players

Latino Democrats of New York City

A volunteer-founded political organizing group that became a 501(c)(4) nonprofit, focused on increasing Latino representation in local politics.

Claire Valdez

A New York politician who will represent Brooklyn and Queens' 7th District in Congress beginning in January.

Brian Romero

A politician newly elected to the New York State Assembly representing Woodside and Jackson Heights.

The details

The group was created by Jamey Battle and Evelyn Norris Pez, who recruited people from their networks who shared a commitment to integrity and community. Its inaugural 'Primera Noche' reception brought together elected officials, community leaders and supporters for speeches, award presentations and discussion of Latino political participation.

October 2025: Latino Democrats of New York City founded as a volunteer group.
October 21: Inaugural Primera Noche reception held at Lighthouse Rooftop in Long Island City, Queens.
Last month: Official launch as a 501(c)(4) nonprofit.

Civic Context

Latinos are the largest ethnic and racial group after white voters in New York State, with 2.2 million eligible voters. The group's formation reflects a push to build political organizations led by and designed for that electorate.

New York City residents interested in local political participation can follow the group's activities across the five boroughs. The organization's stated focus is on developing future leaders and strengthening community involvement.

The takeaway

Community-based organizations are increasingly forming to ensure political representation reflects the populations they serve. Residents seeking to get involved can look to groups like this one for ways to engage with local elections.