LULAC Institute, Inc.

In the early hours of Tuesday morning, a tragedy unfolded that shook the Baltimore community to its core and brought to light the risks faced by Latino workers in the construction industry. This fundraiser aims to provide immediate financial assistance to the affected families, helping them navigate through these trying times with dignity.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge, a vital artery connecting lives and communities, experienced a catastrophic collapse when an immense cargo ship, having lost power, crashed into its structure. This incident not only disrupted countless lives but also highlighted the dangers faced daily by those who build and maintain our infrastructure.

Among the workers fixing potholes on the bridge that fateful morning were eight individuals dedicated to their work and their families' futures. Most of these workers, originally from Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Mexico, symbolize the broader narrative of Hispanic workers' significant contributions and the disproportionate risks they face in the construction sector. Tragically, two workers were rescued from the chilling waters of the Patapsco River, while the search for the remaining six carried on with dwindling hope.

The aftermath of this disaster has left families and communities in despair, clinging to the hope of finding their loved ones and seeking closure. Families like that of Maynor Suazo, a father and the primary provider of his family, find themselves in an agonizing wait for news. These workers, who arrived in the United States with dreams of a better life, faced the ultimate sacrifice in their quest for the American Dream.

This incident has not only caused personal tragedy but also highlighted the systemic issues facing Latino workers in the United States. Despite making up a significant portion of the construction workforce, they are disproportionately exposed to life-threatening dangers. In 2022 alone, Hispanic workers accounted for a substantial number of fatalities in the construction and extraction industries, underscoring the urgent need for improved safety measures and support.

As we mourn the loss and pray for the missing, we also recognize the urgent need to support the families left behind and to honor the memory of those who perished. This fundraiser aims to provide immediate financial assistance to the affected families, helping them navigate through these trying times with dignity. Additionally, it seeks to raise awareness about the risks faced by Latino construction workers and to advocate for safer working conditions.

Your support can make a difference. By contributing to this cause, you're not only offering financial aid but also standing in solidarity with those who contribute tirelessly to our communities, often at great personal risk. Let us come together and build a safety net of hope and support for the families impacted by this tragedy, ensuring that the workers who help build our cities are not forgotten.

In the spirit of community and compassion, we invite you to join us in this crucial effort to support those affected by the Baltimore bridge collapse. Together, we can turn tragedy into a beacon of hope and solidarity.

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