Sen. Leo Jaramillo, 4th from left, with leaders from the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL) in Madrid, Spain, as the organization received the Placa de Honor de la Orden de Isabel la Católica, one of Spain’s highest civil honors recognizing leadership, diplomacy, and international partnership. Courtesy photo

On receiving the Placa de Honor de la Orden de Isabel la Católica, Sen. Leo Jaramillo said, ‘Standing in Madrid representing New Mexico and Latino communities across our nation was deeply personal. I carried the spirit of Northern New Mexico with me into that room — our culture, our history, our language, and our people. From the Española Valley to the international stage, this moment was a powerful reminder that our stories, traditions, and contributions continue to resonate across the world.’ Courtesy photo

NHCSL News:

MADRID, SPAIN — New Mexico Dist. 5 Sen. Leo Jaramillo, Los Alamos, Rio Arriba, Sandoval & Santa Fe counties, joined leaders from the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL) in Madrid, Spain, as the organization received the Placa de Honor de la Orden de Isabel la Católica, one of Spain’s highest civil honors recognizing leadership, diplomacy, and international partnership.

During the visit, Sen. Jaramillo met with José Manuel Albares, Spain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and the nation’s top diplomat, to discuss cultural diplomacy, international collaboration, and the longstanding ties between Spain, New Mexico, and Latino communities in the United States.

Sen. Jaramillo, who serves as West Region Chair of NHCSL, said the moment carried special meaning as a proud Northern New Mexican representing his community on the international stage.

“Standing in Madrid representing New Mexico and Latino communities across our nation was deeply personal,” Sen. Jaramillo said. “I carried the spirit of Northern New Mexico with me into that room — our culture, our history, our language, and our people. From the Española Valley to the international stage, this moment was a powerful reminder that our stories, traditions, and contributions continue to resonate across the world.”

Sen. Jaramillo emphasized that the recognition reflects the growing importance of Hispanic leadership and cultural connection in strengthening relationships between nations.

Sen. Leo Jaramillo, left, with José Manuel Albares, Spain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and the nation’s top diplomat. The men met to discuss cultural diplomacy, international collaboration, and the longstanding ties between Spain, New Mexico, and Latino communities in the United States. Courtesy photo