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RNC wants Latino community in more visible light

Posted at 9:21 PM, May 23, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-23 21:21:46-04

A push to make sure all voices are heard.

Some local non-profits said they were contacted by the Republican National Convention because there is a need for help from one specific demographic.

The RNC wants Latinos in very visible positions. In recent weeks, there have been meetings and calls made to ensure, as the RNC puts it, "Everyone is well represented and taken care of."

“They're bringing drugs, their bringing crime..." said Donald Trump.

It's comments like this that are no doubt turning heads.

"I could not even believe that he was saying all those remarks about our community," said community leader Ivelisse Roig.

Roig works within the community doing outreach and translation.

When asked, "Do you think we might see some negative backlash based on those comments when the RNC is here?" Roig said, "Probably we will. We will. People bused in and people from all over."

Right now, there are 46,000 Latinos in Cleveland, representing 10-percent of the population.

RNC spokesperson David O'Neil says the event will draw an additional 50,000 visitors, not including media.

More people means a need for more resources.

"Bilingual services. Being able to cater whether it's somebody getting hurt or somebody," said Cesar Herrera, President of the Hispanic Police Officer Association.

Herrera's comments, his own.

He says his non-profit has not been contacted by RNC staff, but sees the true importance behind it.

"It would be nice that somebody would bring it up and bring us to the table as to what part we as an organization can play within this major event," said Herrera.

Not just out of fear that something bad might transpire, but rather as O'Neil put it, 'To make sure everyone's visit to Cleveland is as informative and accessible as possible.'

There seems to be a common hope moving forward from all sides and Roig said it best.

"We want to take away all that negativity that's being said about our community and present the good that we represent." said Roig.

According to the Cleveland Police Patrolman's Association, it is not taking steps to bring in extra officers, regardless of ethnicity.

"I do not believe there is or should be an effort to assign police officers strictly based on race and for appearance sake," said President Steve Loomis.

According to the RNC, it is in the process of recruiting volunteers and is getting ready to unveil a new bilingual website. You heard it here first. You will see that, in the coming weeks.