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MARIA TERESA KUMAR

@mariateresakumar.bsky.social
675 followers 3 following 71 posts
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Reposted by MARIA TERESA KUMAR
Kettering Foundation @kettering.org · 01/07/2026
KF Senior Fellow @mariateresakumar.bsky.social argues that recent Supreme Court rulings on TPS and asylum are reshaping who is protected in America, making civic organizing ahead of the 2026 midterms even more urgent.
mariateresakumar.substack.com
When the Supreme Court Stops Protecting Rights
From TPS to asylum, the Court is redrawing the boundaries of who belongs in America and what our democracy stands for.
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Reposted by MARIA TERESA KUMAR
Kettering Foundation @kettering.org · 07/07/2026
Watch as KF Senior Fellow @mariateresakumar.bsky.social accepts the 2026 Ellis Island Medal of Honor with a powerful call to protect the American Dream, celebrate the immigrants who expand America’s promise, and trust the young voters already shaping the nation’s next 250 years.
bit.ly
The People Who Love Her Enough to Change Her — America’s Next 250
In May, the Ellis Island Honors Society honored me alongside several distinguished naturalized U.S.
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Reposted by MARIA TERESA KUMAR
The Weekend on MS NOW @theweekendmsnow.bsky.social · 11/07/2026
“It means he is not on the road to winning the midterms.” @mariateresakumar.bsky.social explains that while most politicians would change their tactics when they are losing ahead of an election, Trump is focused on altering the rules in order to win.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 01/04/2026
At a moment when hard-fought rights are under attack, rooms like this matter. Honored to keynote the Women Lead Summit in Chicago, bringing women together across movements to turn awareness into action.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 18/09/2025
Silencing a journalist, an artist, or a comedian simply because of a difference of political opinion undermines our constitutional rights and contradicts the very foundation of our democracy.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 13/09/2025
Governor Cox’s comment reflects a dangerous instinct to blame those “not from here”. This type of rhetoric puts communities at risk and undermines our shared values. Right now, there is a need for leadership that unites, not divides. My comments on this below  ⬇️.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 05/09/2025
Today’s job numbers show Trump isn’t delivering the jobs or opportunities he promised. Instead, he’s weaponizing immigration and militarizing our cities. Unemployment is rising—especially for Latino and Black workers—while fewer than 30,000 jobs were created in August, the weakest growth in years.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 22/08/2025
I spoke on @morningjoe-msnbc.bsky.social ‬yesterday about our new ad calling for GOP lawmakers to do their job and hold an oversight hearing to investigate Kristi Noem for her chaotic immigration policies that are affecting our Latino communities. It’s time for Congress to take action.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 12/08/2025
I am honored to have shared the stage with such extraordinary leaders at the TIME Impact Leadership Forum. I had a conversation with @davidhogg.bsky.social and Carla Thompson Payton on the importance of bringing young leaders to the table to truly reimagine what America can look like.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 11/08/2025
What’s happening in Texas is alarming: the GOP is working to dilute voters of color’s power. Today, I’ll speak with TX State Reps Trey Martinez Fischer, Linda Garcia & Ramon Romero—frontline defenders of voting rights. Tune in on Voto Latino’s socials to learn how to protect fair representation.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 07/08/2025
Honored to join TIME’s Leadership Impact Forum to discuss leadership, civic engagement & the power of a multicultural America. At a time when many are being silenced, we must defend democracy & uplift new voices. Grateful to Jessica Sibley & W.K. Kellogg Foundation for convening the conversation.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 07/08/2025
I am speaking at the TIME Impact Leadership Forum on “Building the Future.” Young people of color aren’t waiting—they’re leading. At Voto Latino, we see their power every day. This is a call to action. Let’s build a democracy that reflects all of us. #TIMEImpact
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 04/08/2025
I had the pleasure of co-hosting @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.social for a powerful conversation on the role of public media. As an immigrant child, I learned English through Sesame Street. Public broadcasting builds trust, connects communities, and reflects our multicultural identity.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 27/07/2025
Had the pleasure of guest hosting @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.social with @jonathancapehart.bsky.social. 79% of Americans support immigration relief. Sen. Padilla’s bill offers a path, and Democrats must meet the moment with bold legislation.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 27/07/2025
Guest hosting @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.social with @jonathancapehart.bsky.social, I discussed DHS Sec. Noem’s abuses. Voto Latino, alongside 70+ orgs are urging Congress to investigate as ICE’s dragnet increasingly targets even U.S. citizens. Oversight is urgent.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 23/07/2025
I am grateful to Leader @hakeem-jeffries.bsky.social for a thoughtful conversation on the future of the Latino community—from voting rights to economic equity. Our voices matter, and we’re shaping what’s next. Thank you to The Hispanic Federation for bringing us together.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 14/07/2025
During my participation in The King Center’s conversation “Humanity First: Reframing Immigration Through the Lens of Dignity,” we explored how power, and cross-community solidarity can transform the way we approach immigration and human dignity. You can read my reflection here: bit.ly/46H86Xf
bit.ly
The King Center’s Beloved Community Talks
“Humanity First: Reframing Immigration Through the Lens of Dignity”
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 10/07/2025
Grateful to have joined The King Center’s #BelovedCommunityTalks on “Humanity First.” With Dr. Bernice A. King, Jose Antonio Vargas & Teresa Romero, we explored reframing immigration with compassion & dignity. Watch here: youtu.be/bMdpSfLLT3Y
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 30/06/2025
This morning on @morningjoe-msnbc.bsky.social, I spoke about the need for meaningful immigration reform that provides a pathway to citizenship for the millions of people who have called this country home for years. Our immigration system should reflect that reality.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 29/06/2025
I joined @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.social to talk about a major shift in our democracy. The Supreme Court has opened the door to unchecked executive power—breaking nearly 250 years of balance. This isn’t just about immigration. Everyone’s rights are now on the line.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 29/06/2025
I joined @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.social to break down Trump’s proposed budget—one of the most obscene transfers of wealth in our nation’s history. It guts Medicaid, shutters rural hospitals, and hands billions to private detention. Call your Senators now and urge them to vote NO on this bill.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 28/06/2025
Today I joined Alex Witt to discuss Trump’s spending bill. Senate Republicans want to slash Medicaid and food aid while sending $60B to for-profit ICE detention centers. It’s a hit to working families and a giveaway to the wealthy. This budget ignores everyday Americans.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 27/06/2025
Yesterday on Meet the Press NOW, I spoke about the “Big Beautiful Bill.” This bill fails to address real issues impacting Americans like healthcare and affordability. It also threatens Medicaid for 70 million people and pours billions into private detention centers.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 26/06/2025
I am deeply honored to be recognized among the 2025 @carnegiecorp.bsky.social Great Immigrants, Great Americans. This recognition celebrates the contributions of naturalized citizens who have enriched and strengthened our democracy. Together, we represent the multicultural fabric of our country.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 26/06/2025
I am honored to be named a Great Immigrant, Great American by @carnegiecorp.bsky.social alongside so many #GreatImmigrants. Immigrants are America’s secret superpower—we innovate and build this country every single day. Our diversity is what makes us strong.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 24/06/2025
This Immigrant Heritage Month, I’m celebrating resilience and community by uplifting Dreaming of Home by Cristina Jiménez — a now bestseller! Be sure to get a copy at bit.ly/DreamingOfHomeBook. And read more about Dreaming of Home at tinyurl.com/5ard9rzu.
bit.ly
Dreaming of Home 9781250275660 - Macmillan
A MacArthur “Genius” shares her inspiring story, from undocumented newcomer to leader in a powerful immigrant youth movement.“Cristina’s voice ...
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 23/06/2025
Rep @maxwellfrost.bsky.social shares the story of his mother and his grandparents, who came to the U.S. from Cuba during the Freedom Flights of the 1960s. As part of Voto Latino’s “The Dreams That Made Us,” we honor immigrant families. Share your story too at VotoLatino.org/dreams-that-made-us
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 21/06/2025
Last night I joined @allinwithchris.bsky.social to talk about undocumented communities who’ve built lives here—raising kids, caring for others, and contributing deeply. At Voto Latino, we found that 1 in 4 Latino voters knows someone who has been deported. This reality demands action.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 14/06/2025
Yesterday I joined Meet the Press NOW with @kristenwelker.bsky.social. Across the country, people are saying: “This isn’t what I voted for.” Undocumented immigrants and citizens are being caught in the dragnet. This erodes public trust and divides our communities.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 13/06/2025
This morning on @morningjoe-msnbc.bsky.social, I spoke about the harm of ICE raids. Millions of undocumented people—many here over a decade—pay taxes and raise families, yet lack protection. We need pathways to citizenship for Dreamers and all who call this country home.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 13/06/2025
This morning on @morningjoe-msnbc.bsky.social, I spoke about @padilla.senate.gov being handcuffed and removed from a DHS press conference—for seeking answers for his constituents. Secretary Noem escalated the situation, and this is part of a larger pattern. That should concern us all.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 12/06/2025
. @juliancastrotx.bsky.social shares a powerful story of generational resilience—from his grandparents’ migration from northern Mexico in the 1920s to becoming the first in his family to become a lawyer. Voto Latino’s “The Dreams That Made Us" celebrates stories like his. Share yours!
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 11/06/2025
Today, I stood with @durbin.senate.gov, @padilla.senate.gov, @sylviagarcia.house.gov, and @ramirez.house.gov to mark 13 years of DACA. Dreamers are America’s promise. Thank you to the Home is Here coalition, United We Dream, @fwd.us & NILC for leading the charge. Congress must act.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 10/06/2025
. @vcardenas.bsky.social, Executive Director of @americasvoice.bsky.social, shares her family’s journey from Cochabamba, Bolivia, and the sacrifices made by her abuelitos. During Immigrant Heritage Month, Voto Latino honors the dreams and strength of immigrant families.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 09/06/2025
Trump says he’s targeting criminals, but his administration targets hardworking immigrants—parents, neighbors, long-time U.S. residents. Even citizens have been wrongly detained. If he cared about safety, he’d pursue humane reform. Voto Latino welcomes that conversation.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 07/06/2025
Today on National Gun Violence Awareness Day, I honor lives lost & communities still healing. On average, more than 14 Latinos die from gun violence every day. #NiUnoMás We must build a future where our families & kids are safe. #WearOrange @everytown.bsky.social
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 06/06/2025
Our democracy is at risk, especially for Latino communities. In my op-ed for LATINO Magazine, I share how we can act by defending our rights, pushing back on disinformation, and building civic power. Read more on how to take action and protect our future: tinyurl.com/3sf55fuw
tinyurl.com
Latino Magazine Spring 2025 Page 76
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 05/06/2025
. @repespaillat.bsky.social, Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, shares his abuelos’ story—immigrants who came to the U.S. in the 1950s to build a better life. As part of Voto Latino’s “The Dreams That Made Us,” we honor immigrant families. Share your story too.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 05/06/2025
“I can’t convince you that a policy is good for you if I’m not meeting you where you are. We need to convince [the non-voters] that democracy is good for you, and we need to bring them back” Thank you to the Social Innovation Summit for hosting today’s conversation. #SIS25
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 04/06/2025
Today, I’m joining Julián Castro and moderator Natalye Paquin at Social Innovation Summit 2025 for Leadership at the Intersection of Policy & Participation. A conversation on how civic action and policy leadership must move together to create lasting change. #SIS25
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 03/06/2025
Tom Llamas’ rise as the first Latino anchor of NBC Nightly News reflects the American Dream—made possible by his parents’ courage to immigrate. This Immigrant Heritage Month, let’s uplift voices shaped by that strength. Let’s honor The Dreams That Made Us.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 03/06/2025
I am proud to support Dreaming of Home by Cristina Jiménez—a moving memoir about growing up undocumented, finding power, and creating change. A guide for anyone seeking hope in uncertain times. It is out now: bit.ly/DreamingOfHomeBook
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 03/06/2025
I’m thrilled to announce that I'll be speaking at Social Innovation Summit 2025 tomorrow in San Francisco! Social Innovation brings together leaders across all different sectors to tackle our most pressing social challenges—and to find new paths forward. See you there? #SIS25
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 02/06/2025
This Immigrant Heritage Month, Voto Latino launches “The Dreams That Made Us,” honoring the stories of our parents and grandparents whose sacrifices shaped our futures. Their journeys are woven into the deepest fibers of this country. Share your story—tag @VotoLatino or email press@votolatino.org.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 28/05/2025
I joined the Capital for Good podcast with the Tamer Institute for Social Enterprise and Climate Change at Columbia to share my journey—from Prop 187 to co-founding Voto Latino. We talked about youth power, civic culture, and what’s next. Listen: tinyurl.com/mvvn6b6d
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 27/05/2025
The House passed a budget slashing $715B from Medicaid while boosting tax breaks for the wealthy. Over 26M Latinos rely on Medicaid, and 72% of Latino voters are sounding the alarm. The Senate will take up the bill soon—call your senators now. Read more here: tinyurl.com/3e8t8jsy
tinyurl.com
Medicaid Cuts Endanger 26 Million Latinos — 72% of Latino Voters Sound the Alarm
The latest proposal by Congressional Republicans to slash at least $715 billion from Medicaid, a move paired with President Trump’s $4.9 trillion tax break plan, is not just bad policy, it’s a moral f...
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 19/05/2025
What Latino voters are saying about Medicaid: 72% are concerned about $800B in proposed cuts, per a national poll by Voto Latino Foundation & Latino Community Foundation. Medicaid covers 20M Latinos, including half of Latino kids. Read more on my Substack: tinyurl.com/5prw8hh7
tinyurl.com
A Strong Majority of Latino Voters — 72% — Are Concerned About Medicaid Cuts
Latino Voters Reject Medicaid Cuts as a Threat to Family Health and Economic Stability
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 17/05/2025
Honored to have guest hosted @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.social and to speak with @raskin.house.gov about the reconciliation bill. It proposes deep cuts to Medicaid and food assistance while giving major tax breaks to the wealthy. We must protect the programs that help communities stay afloat.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 17/05/2025
Honored to have guest hosted @theweekendmsnbc.bsky.social with Eugene Daniels & Jonathan Capehart. Grateful for the powerful conversation with George Conway & Michele Goodwin on accountability, civic engagement & what’s at stake in 2026. We must flood the vote to protect our democracy.
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MARIA TERESA KUMAR @mariateresakumar.bsky.social · 16/05/2025
After a crazy news week- our President accepting a $400m plane while Congress debates the merits of Medicaid, SCOTUS hears the “virtues” of stripping US citizenship to children it’s been a week to cover! Thrilled to join Jonathan Capehart and Eugene Daniels. Tune into @msnbc.com Saturday at 7am!
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