Programs
Research to Narrative
Turning research into action across the issues that shape everyday life for Latino communities in New Jersey — from housing and health to education, climate, and justice.
Our focus areas
Six issues shaping the Latino experience in NJ
LANF produces bilingual, accessible research and policy analysis that turns data into action. We use that research to advocate, organize, and build coalitions across the issues below.
Education
LANF leads the School Desegregation Project, working to end segregation by race and poverty in New Jersey's public schools. In 2018, LANF and a coalition of civil rights groups, students, and families filed Latino Action Network, et al. v. State of New Jersey, arguing that the state's school assignment policies violate New Jersey's constitution. LANF has also published research documenting the disparities Latino students face in New Jersey schools.
Housing
LANF advocates for equitable housing for all New Jerseyans. Partnering with the Fair Share Housing Center, LANF championed landmark legislation reinforcing the Mount Laurel Doctrine, which requires municipalities to provide their fair share of affordable housing. LANF also testifies before the state legislature on affordable housing policy and works alongside statewide partners to end housing discrimination against immigrants and people of color.
Climate change
Through the Clean Energy Project, LANF generates dialogue with residents in Latino, Black, and Brown communities about how clean energy impacts everyday life today and in the future. LANF has also connected community members to the PSE&G-sponsored Clean Energy Jobs Program, a partnership with the NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development that trains and places New Jersey residents in the state's growing clean energy sector.
Community Centered Voices
LANF supports youth leaders from Latino communities across New Jersey, with a focus on ensuring LGBTQIA+ youth feel safe and seen. In partnership with LOGRO, LANF has advocated for LGBTQIA+ students' rights in local school districts and helped organize community Pride celebrations, amplifying the voices of young people building a more inclusive New Jersey.
Health
LANF works to strengthen and defend reproductive and sexual health rights for individuals across New Jersey. In partnership with Salvation and Social Justice, New Jersey Policy Perspective, and the New Jersey Citizen Action Education Fund, LANF develops community leaders and advocates on health equity issues, including expanding access to mental health services and support for BIPOC communities.
Criminal Legal Justice
Through dedicated advocacy and policy reform, LANF works to dismantle systemic racism and promote racial equity in New Jersey's criminal legal system. LANF's efforts include advocating for ethical, transparent medical and mental health care in state prisons, supporting reforms for technical parole violators, and convening the NJ Community & Corrections Working Summit — an effort that has contributed to reforms including bail reform, cannabis legalization, and isolated confinement laws.
Want to dig into the research?
Explore LANF's publications and policy work, or reach out to learn how you can support these efforts.