From Pastor to Advocate to Alderman? DeJesus is the right choice

(May 12, 2009 - Washington, D.C., Hispanic Christian Newswire) America's largest Hispanic Christian Organization, The National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC), The Hispanic National Association of Evangelicals, announced today full support and endorsement of Rev. Wilfredo DeJesus as the midterm replacement of Alderman Billy Ocasio who vacated the post to serve as a Senior Advisor to Illinois Governor Quinn.

"Chicago would be blessed to have Rev.DeJesus serve as Alderman. Without a doubt, Wilfredo represents the best of the Hispanic American community. His commitment to justice, the poor and the most disadvantaged in Chicago speaks accolades", declared Dr. Jesse Miranda, Chief Executive Officer, NHCLC. Miranda added that very few Hispanic Pastors have succeeded in developing and growing multi-million dollar inner city programs addressing everything from drug addiction to poverty alleviation such as the multi-faceted ministry started by DeJesus.

DeJesus counts with widespread support among Chicago residents. Recently, inaccurate statements labeling him as a homophobic religious leader surfaced in order to derail the potential nomination. "The gay and lesbian community has as much to fear from DeJesus as they do from President Obama. Both Obama and DeJesus define traditional marriage as a union between one man and one woman. Similarly, both DeJesus and the Pastor would defend the civil rights of all Chicago citizens including the LGBT community. If DeJesus is homophobic, then so is Obama", explained Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, NHCLC President.

DeJesus worked arduously for the election of President Barack Obama. In 2008, the Chicago Mega Church Pastor received the "Amos" Award from the NHCLC's 25,400 churches and 16 million constituents in recognition of his Justice advocacy. "Pastor DeJesus is a moderate compassionate leader who will serve Chicago with integrity and wisdom", added Rodriguez.

For Interviews and additional information, please contact Maritza Ramirez, NHCLC Marketing and Media Director, at 916-919-7476. www.hispanicevangelicals.com and hispanicchurch@aol.com