WASHINGTON, July 25, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) applauds the confirmation of Thomas Perez as the new Secretary of Labor with a vote of 54-46, making him the first Dominican American to serve in a presidential cabinet. Perez previously served as Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division at the U.S. Department of Justice.
"As Labor Secretary we are confident that Perez will be an asset to this administration as he continues his outstanding efforts to foster and develop the well-being of wage earners and job seekers," stated USHCC President & CEO Javier Palomarez. "We congratulate Secretary Perez and look forward to working with him in the future in support of America's Hispanic business community."
Perez, a Harvard-educated lawyer, worked at the Maryland Department of Labor before joining the Justice Department. He also served 12 years in federal public service, prosecuting some of the Department's most high profile cases.
"Today's Senate confirmation of Tom Perez is a welcomed victory for the Hispanic community," stated USHCC Chairman Marc Rodriguez. "The leadership skills which Perez has demonstrated throughout his career will make him an outstanding Labor Secretary that will help improve the health of our economy."
About the USHCC
Founded in 1979, the USHCC actively promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs and represents the interests of over 3 million Hispanic-owned businesses across the United States that together contribute in excess of $465 billion to the American economy each year. It also serves as the umbrella organization for more than 200 local Hispanic chambers and business associations in the United States and Puerto Rico.
Follow us on Twitter @USHCC.
Valentina Pereda USHCC Director of Communications 202-489-2932
