Henry Pena is the Chief Electrician for plant operations at Carewell Health Hospital in East Orange, New Jersey. As a member of the Latino Action Network since 2016 and a steering committee member since 2017, Pena chairs the Membership Committee at LAN. Pena is also on the labor, criminal justice, and Bylaws committee. In 2014, Mr. Pena and two friends began uniting street-respected Latino "big bros" who had achieved personal and professional success despite their past mistakes or the neighborhood they come from. Throughout New Jersey's roughest barrios, rehabilitated business owners, correction officers, construction workers, barbers, and single fathers formed UPLIFT Barrio Outreach with Pena as its co-founder and State Director. Aside from everyday one-on-one guidance (with a specialty in street organizations), Mr. Pena utilizes UPLIFT and Latino Action Network to introduce the average at-risk youth or recently released brothers to the importance of networking and community service participation to better one’s life and community. Henry Pena has an associate degree in Paralegal Studies from Berkeley College of Business and is currently studying for his Master's Electrician’s License.

Cory Garriga Is the Vice President of Communications for the Latino Action Network he was born and raised in the Greenville section of Jersey City. From a young age, Cory saw the importance in being of service to his community. Currently, Cory is on the Steering Committee for the Latino Action Network, a local Committeeman in Jersey City, and is a Commisioner for the Jersey City Preservation Commission. Cory is the inaugural President of the Jersey City Young Democrats, an organization that promotes political and community involvement for Young Democrats ages 18-40.

Javier Robles, J.D., is a distinguished Puerto Rican-American leader, educator, and advocate dedicated to advancing LAtino/o/x, disability rights, and public service. A proud alumnus of Seton Hall Law School and Rutgers University, where he earned a dual bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Puerto Rican and Caribbean Studies, Robles combines his legal expertise with a passion for community empowerment. As an Assistant Teaching Professor in Rutgers's Kinesiology and Health Department, he directs the Center for Disability Sports, Health, and Wellness. He has played a pivotal role in creating the Disability Studies Minor at Rutgers University.

Robles is deeply committed to serving his community, holding leadership positions such as President of the Latino Action Network of New Jersey (LAN) and Chair of the New Jersey Disabilities Covid-19 Action Committee. His advocacy extends beyond the local level with appointments to national boards and commissions, including the United Spinal Association and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation National Commission on Public Health Data Systems. He was also appointed by Governor Phil Murphy to serve on the Puerto Rico Commission, reflecting his ongoing dedication to Puerto Rican and Latino issues.

In addition to his academic and leadership roles, Robles is a published writer, contributing to outlets such as Latinos NJ, ThisAbled Nation, and New Mobility. His passion for supporting others is reflected in his founding of online communities like "People with Disabilities Helping Each Other Survive the Coronavirus." Outside of work, Robles is an avid photographer, vintage glass collector, beekeeper, and gardener, embodying the values of creativity and connection that define his life.

Robles’ advocacy, leadership, and deep connection to his Puerto Rican roots underscore his tireless commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society for people of all abilities.

Ms. Hernandez is the Treasurer of the Latino Action Network, the Secretary of the Latino Coalition of New Jersey, and a member of the LAN Steering Committee. She attended Brookdale Community College and is now a student at Rutgers University, where she is majoring in Psychology and minoring in Sociology. Ms. Hernandez has been involved in the NJ Drivers License Movement, Occupational Licenses, and many other initiatives. She began advocating for the immigrant community at the age of 11 and has never stopped fighting for them. Ms. Hernandez aspires to follow in the footsteps of her mentor and to inspire others during her journey. Ms. Hernandez recently had the honor of being a part of the ACLU 2020 Summer Advocacy program and was awarded a scholarship by Peggy Anastos for the school year 2022.

Who We Are: The Latino Action Network (LAN)

Since 2009, the Latino Action Network (LAN) has been a powerful voice for change, tirelessly advocating for the issues that matter most to the Latino community. From immigrant rights and education to healthcare, affordable housing, and voting rights, our mission is to ensure that Latino voices are heard and valued in every corner of society.

Born From a Shared Vision

LAN was founded by a dedicated group of Latino leaders from across New Jersey, united by a common purpose: to take a stand against the challenges facing our community. These visionaries recognized that the time had come for progressive Latinos to join forces, confront systemic injustices, and fight for our rightful place at decision-making tables.

Over the years, LAN has become a driving force in shaping the future of our state. We’ve made significant strides, from influencing legislative redistricting to advocating for diversity on New Jersey’s highest court and championing marriage equality. Our commitment to justice and equity has been unwavering.

A Legacy of Advocacy

Our work speaks volumes. LAN members have testified at public hearings, penned influential opinion pieces, and met with lawmakers to push for meaningful change. Through legal challenges, grassroots campaigns, and bold advocacy, we’ve fought for:

• Fair Housing: Ensuring everyone has access to safe, affordable homes.
• Equitable Healthcare: Breaking down barriers to essential medical care.
• Desegregation of Schools: Promoting equal opportunities for every child.
• Criminal Justice: Working with government and lawmakers to change incarceration policy
• Electoral Integrity: Defending the right to vote and ensuring fair representation.

We’ve also stood firm against policies that threaten public education, including the unchecked expansion of charter schools and voucher schemes that divert resources from students who need them most.

A Call to Action

LAN is more than an organization—we’re a movement. A movement built on the strength of Latinos and allies who believe in a fairer, more inclusive society. We invite you to join us, learn more about our work, and connect with individuals who share your passion for justice.

Together, we’re creating a brighter future for Latino families across New Jersey and beyond. Your voice, your energy, and your commitment are the keys to making that future a reality.

Our Mission: Driving Equity and Inclusion

At our core, LAN is a grassroots organization fueled by the collective power of individuals and groups dedicated to advancing the equitable inclusion of diverse Latino communities in all areas of American life. Through action at the local, state, and national levels, we are building a society where everyone has a seat at the table.

Let’s work together, let’s rise together, and let’s build a legacy of progress and unity. ¡Juntos somos más fuertes!

Mission

The Latino Action Network (LAN) is a grassroots organization composed of individuals and organizations committed to engaging in collective action at the local, state, and national levels to advance the equitable inclusion of diverse Latino communities in all aspects of American society.