MassLive recently asked readers to identify people they consider Hispanic and Latino leaders in Massachusetts, working to make a difference across the state.
Profiles of these leaders will be published over the course of Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. These are people readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Gladys Oyola-LopezSebastian Restrepo
Gladys Oyola-Lopez
Age: 50
Community: Springfield
Her story: Gladys Oyola-Lopez has worked for decades in state and local government, including the Commonwealth of Massachusetts both at University of Massachusetts Amherst and The House of Representatives in Boston.
Some of her other accomplishments and duties include being appointed as the first Latina election commissioner in the Commonwealth in 2010. In 2021, she was also elected by the Springfield City Council as the first Latina city clerk, as well as designated as the first Latinx cabinet head in the city of Springfield by Mayor Domenic Sarno.
“Voting is the cornerstone of any healthy democracy,” she said. “As a result, I strive to make voting accessible to all Springfield residents regardless of socio-economic or language barriers. As the only Latinx department head in the city of Springfield, I also consider myself to be a voice in government for my community.”
Oyola-Lopez was born in Puerto Rico and grew up in the north end of Springfield. Her mother worked for the New North Citizen’s Council, allowing Oyola-Lopez to spend time there after school. From a young age, the Springfield resident saw “how important small grassroots organizations were in providing much-needed services to the most vulnerable in our community.”
Since she was 10-years-old, she has also volunteered for elected officials, non-profit organizations and the city of Springfield among others.
As she puts it, “public service is in my DNA.”
In her words: “Before I was old enough to work, I volunteered my time, answering phones or holding signs. I would advise anyone interested in pursuing a career in local government to become engaged at any level. Attend a neighborhood council meeting, volunteer at a school or get involved in your local ward committee. I will be forever grateful to all the community leaders who served as mentors to me and helped me on my path to a career in public service.”
We’re always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
