Hello and Welcome,
I’m Osman Canales, a proud Long Island resident and alumnus of its educational institutions.
As an immigrant, I’ve firsthand experienced the unique challenges the Latino community faces—from language barriers to cultural adjustments. But I’ve also witnessed our resilience, our tenacity, and our strength.
My advocacy journey began in high school, grounded in the belief that everyone deserves respect, dignity, and equitable opportunities. It’s this conviction that led me to establish the Long Island Latino Association Inc., a nonprofit, non-partisan community advocacy organization.
Our mission is straightforward: to serve as a unified voice for the Latino community on Long Island. We advocate for equity, equal representation, and the advancement of all Latinos.
Why is this important? Because Latinos are not just a demographic footnote. We are a vibrant, diverse, and integral part of Long Island and the U.S. as a whole. We are homeowners, entrepreneurs, medical professionals, legal experts, and much more. And yes, we are voters—a force capable of driving real, positive change.
This organization aims to empower our community with the tools to be engaged voters. Because when we understand the power of our vote, we can use it to enact the change we wish to see.
We also offer a centralized hub for information and referrals, featuring a resources guide to connect you with essential services that are free or low-cost.
I invite you to join this mission. We need your voice, your energy, and your commitment to building a better future for all of us.
So, get involved! Follow us on social media, sign up for notifications, and take part in shaping this movement. Together, we are not just making history—we are defining the future.
With deepest respect,
Osman Canales
President and Founder
Long Island Latino Association, Inc.
Long Island Latino Association Inc. 