Former Lebanon City Council member Cornell Wilson was sworn in as a member of the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs (GACLA) Jan. 10.
Governor Tom Wolf swore in a total of 33 commissioners, but Wilson, a new appointee, is the only one from Lebanon County.
“It’s an honor to be appointed to the Governor’s Advisory Commission of Latino Affairs,” Wilson said in an email to LebTown. “I’m proud to represent our community where I was born and raised.”
In 2019’s local elections, Democrat Wilson ceded his City of Lebanon City Council position after receiving 1,235 votes, 73 fewer than new appointee Democrat Amy Keller.
“My goal is to bring information and resources to our community,” said Wilson. “Even though I’m no longer a political official , I still want to educate folks on the new voting laws, changes and why it’s important to vote in every election.”
The GACLA exists to advise Governor Wolf on policies affecting Latino communities and “ensure that Pennsylvania’s Latinos are given the opportunity to thrive in community development, education, equal rights and equal opportunities, workforce, health and social services in Pennsylvania,” according to Wolf’s press release.
“Pennsylvania is built on a foundation of inclusion and diversity and the Latino community is an important part of our commonwealth’s history and our future,” said Governor Wolf in the press release. “I commend all of the members of my Latino Affairs Commission for their dedication and commitment. There is a tremendous need to hear from Latinos on everything from healthcare and education to economic development and the census, and I look forward to working with the commissioners to create a Pennsylvania where everyone can thrive.”
Wilson said that he plans to focus on healthcare, the census, education, and employment while working with the GACLA. However, he plans to remain involved in Lebanon’s community while serving on the GACLA.
“This is a great responsibility but I still plan to continue with all my community work and my board commitments,” said Wilson. “Community work is and always be my passion.”
Photos provided by Wilson below.
