STATEMENT: The Accountability Movement Announces Founding Executive Director and New Chairwoman
Feb. 26, 2025 —
Today, Aquí: The Accountability Movement announced two dynamic leaders who will help steer the organization towards its mission of empowering Latino communities and driving systemic change. Sindy M. Benavides has been named Executive Director, and Amanda Renteria was recently elected Chairwoman of the group.
Aquí is a dynamic organization that champions Latino voices, stories, and leadership across American life. Through innovative initiatives like ‘Show the Receipts’ and the Latino Speakers Bureau, Aquí partners with media outlets, corporations, and institutions to spotlight Latino excellence and expand opportunities for authentic, fair, and inclusive representation. The organization celebrates and amplifies Latino achievements while creating pathways for greater investment, visibility, and participation in every sector - from entertainment and journalism to business and public service. Accountability—a cornerstone of Aquí’s mission—will focus on harnessing the collective power of Latinos to push for action and mobilization. By showcasing the rich diversity and contributions of Latino communities and holding organizations accountable to these communities, Aquí helps shape a more inclusive American story where Latino perspectives and experiences are valued, respected, and central to our shared future.
Benavides, a highly respected civil rights leader, will lead Aquí’s day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives. She brings extensive experience implementing transformational advocacy campaigns, having served as the President and Chief Executive Officer for the Latino Victory Project and as the first woman to serve as Chief Executive Officer of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the oldest Latino civil rights organization in the nation. Her leadership in movement organizing will be pivotal in driving the group’s advocacy work and engaging communities to demand accountability from those in power. Benavides is a passionate advocate for underrepresented communities. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Virginia State University, a Certificate in Executive Management from Harvard Kennedy School, and further studies in International Affairs at American University.
“I’m thrilled to officially launch Aquí and lead accountability campaigns across America,” said Benavides. “Latino Americans are the present and future of our nation and our goal is to ensure that our growing community understands its political, cultural, and economic influence and power. As hate crimes continue to increase in America, we stand ready to combat those looking to profit from rhetoric, vitriol, and weaponizing our identity. Everyone deserves to live free from hate, fear and violence. We will continue to challenge the systems that perpetuate injustice, seek to erase our history and fight for a future where Latinos are heard, seen, and valued. A deep note of gratitude to the Aquí board and its founding leaders for their love and support. I understand the significance of the moment that we’re in, and the decades of sacrifice from leaders past and present. I stand ready to fulfill our mission to unapologetically uplift Latino voices, protect our history and build power in our beloved community.”
Renteria, as the chairwoman of the board, will provide oversight and strategic guidance to the organization’s leadership. She is the Chief Executive Officer of Code for America, a nonprofit organization focused on improving government services through technology. With a background in political campaigns, public service, and technology innovation, Renteria's expertise will be instrumental in expanding Aquí’s impact and securing resources for its ongoing initiatives. She has also served in multiple leadership positions in the U.S. government and politics and is proud to have served as the first Latina Chief of Staff in the U.S. Senate.
Renteria added, “Our mission at Aquí deeply resonates with me—we're working to ensure Latino voices shape every sector of society. By highlighting Latino achievements and contributions nationwide while also confronting discrimination head-on, we're driving systemic changes that make our country better. Our nation's motto, e pluribus unum, 'out of many, one', reminds us that America is strongest when all voices, including our Latino communities, are heard and valued. Aquí is committed to partnering with allies who share our vision of an America that truly reflects and upholds the values of all its people."
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About Aquí: The Accountability Movement
Aquí: The Accountability Movement is dedicated to combating misrepresentation, exclusion, and hate against Latinos. Through high-impact campaigns and grassroots advocacy, the organization empowers communities and holds institutions accountable for their actions. It amplifies authentic Latino voices and stories, fostering stronger representation in media and leadership roles. For more information on Aquí and its mission, please visit aqui.org.