Franklin, WI – Leadership from Forward Latino met with Mr. Mark Lutz, owner of the West Allis Cheese and Sausage Shoppe after members called with concerns over an online post made by a representative of the company. The post was immediately removed and an apology was issued. West Allis Mayor Dan Devine and First District Alderman Angelito Tenorio organized and participated in the meeting.
Darryl Morin, National President of Forward Latino stated, “I would like to thank Mayor Devine and Alderman Tenorio for their leadership in bringing all the parties together. We had an honest and substantive discussion with Mr. Lutz. We shared the concerns of many in the Latino community and the origins of their concerns. We also discussed the Latino community’s economic contribution to our state and our nation, as well as, addressed myths regarding immigrants and more. Mr. Lutz was very forthright and apologized for the post. Furthermore, we agreed to work together to help make the dream of a college education a reality for a promising Hispanic student wishing to earn a degree in a STEM related field. Following today’s meeting, I believe there is a greater understanding and appreciation among all of us and a genuine interest in moving forward together as “one community.”
Mr. Mark Lutz added “I appreciate the opportunity to meet with Darryl Morin of Forward Latino, Mayor Dan Devine and Alderman Tenorio and to apologize for the post. Our city and state face many challenges, challenges that are best addressed when we work together as one community. Our Latino population is important to our city and our state and the industries that are related to my business. I look forward to supporting collaborative efforts to the benefit of all and will continue to invest in and support the community and people my business serves.”
Alderman Angelito Tenorio stated “I’m grateful for Mayor Devine, Mr. Lutz, and Mr. Morin coming together with me to have an open and productive discussion about immigration. It is important that we have these conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion in our community, especially as it pertains to our immigrant neighbors. We can only thrive as a city if everyone rises up together, regardless of their background or where they come from. Our diversity makes us stronger, and I’m excited to continue this conversation and to do good work to make West Allis the best it can be for everyone.”
Forward Latino is in preliminary discussions with Mayor Devine and Alderman Tenorio on holding educational events in West Allis.
