Tomás O’Brien is the new executive director of the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus.
The Massachusetts Black & Latino Legislative Caucus highlights and analyzes those issues and concerns affecting people of color in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The purpose of the caucus is to develop a sense of political awareness among its constituents and to make the political and legislative process accountable and accessible for those who have been disenfranchised.
O’Brien graduated from Wesleyan University, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science and government in 2022. During his time there, he interned with the United States Senate, working within the environmental and immigration departments and researching New England’s marine protection policy.
Following his years at Wesleyan, O’Brien worked in the AmeriCorps as a fifth-grade mentor and tutor before transitioning to a research fellowship with Massachusetts Competitive Partnership. After his fellowship, he worked as an associate with Dewey Square Group, lobbying on behalf of clients at the Massachusetts State House and assisting in the development of grassroots organization efforts, among other responsibilities.
This past March, O’Brien was brought in as the executive director of Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus. In this role, he will act as a representative to help address the needs and issues that affect the Black and Latino community across the Commonwealth. This year, that includes combating maternal health disparities, attracting and retaining educators of color to the state, boosting affordable housing and tenant protections, growing micro businesses, establishing health equity and more.
The mission of the caucus is to not only highlight but combat the issues that continue to permeate the Black and Latino communities throughout Massachusetts.
Founded in January 1973 as the Massachusetts Black Legislative Caucus, the priorities of those involved have not changed much over the last 50 or so years.
In his new role, O’Brien’s skill and clear passion for civic engagement will allow him to continue the mission of the caucus.
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