LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – City Councilwoman Christy Martinez-Garcia, a Lubbock native, created a platform for the Latino community after seeing a need for one.
“My granddad instilled in me, and that was first God, then family, and never, forget your community,” Martinez-Garcia said.
For 20 years, she has published “Latino Lubbock,” a magazine sharing Hub City news from a Latino perspective.
She also founded the nonprofit “Los Hermanos Familias” and community events including the Cinco de Mayo Parade and “Vamos a Pescar.”
Martinez-Garcia sees a change
“I remember the state demographer coming to Lubbock and saying, if you’re not ready for the Hispanic community, now is the time. And we’re strong in business. We are great at, our purchasing power is amazing, and we have so much to give,” Martinez-Garcia said.
Martinez-Garcia says one of her biggest dreams is a community that supports one another, despite different backgrounds.
“Diversity, equity, and inclusion. Those are three words that to some are intimidating, but I think it’s also an opportunity to embrace something different than you. That’s what this country was built on and that’s what this community was built on,” Martinez-Garcia said.
Focus on next generation
Despite the older generation currently holding the baton, Martinez-Garcia wants everyone to pour into the next generation.
“We can’t just focus on folks that are retired. We need young leadership. They need to also start getting involved. So for me, it’s important that we get them involved in the on our boards and commissions on our Lubbock 101 so they can start learning the ropes,” Martinez-Garcia said.
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