Casilda Luna, a prominent figure in Latinx history, made significant contributions as a community organizer and advocate in Washington, D.C. Born in 1926 in Sánchez, Dominican Republic, Luna emigrated to the United States in 1962 during the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo.
A social worker by training, she was committed to uplifting her community, especially through the organizations she helped establish, such as the VIDA Senior Center and the Latin American Youth Center. These organizations were instrumental in addressing the needs of immigrants and marginalized groups in D.C.’s Latinx community.
Luna’s work in community health and education positioned her as a key leader for Latin Americans in the U.S. She advocated for housing rights, founded the Imperial Tenants’ Association, and played a pivotal role in establishing the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs. Luna’s activism was deeply rooted in her belief in the power of collective action to combat issues like poverty and social injustice.
Known affectionately as “Abuelita” (Grandmother) to many, Luna embodied the spirit of service that defined her family’s legacy in the Dominican Republic. Her legacy in the D.C. area, especially in neighborhoods like Adams Morgan, remains a testament to her enduring impact on Latinx and Afro-Latinx communities.
