State Rep. Orlando Ramos is an emerging Hispanic leader in Massachusetts

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, MassLive asked readers to identify people who are emerging Hispanic leaders throughout the state, working to make a difference in their own area of interest, be it politics, education, business or the arts.

These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.

Orlando Ramos

Age: 41

Community: Springfield

His story: Orlando Ramos was born and raised in Springfield. He is Puerto Rican and graduated from Putnam High School. He is a 21-year member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 336, earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and a masters in public administration from Westfield State University.

• Read more: Orlando Ramos says that as Springfield mayor, he’d be an agent of change

Ramos won a seat on the Springfield City Council in 2013 and later became president for the council. During his tenure, the council passed laws to lower property taxes for seniors, worked to get dirt bikes off the streets, and led efforts to bring police body-worn cameras to the Springfield Police Department.

Ramos first took office as a state representative in 2021. He’s secured millions of dollars for the city of Springfield and helped to pass legislation to include small businesses in sports betting, legislation to remove a taxpayer subsidy for biomass, and legislation regulating the use of facial surveillance technology.

• Read more: What is Hispanic Heritage Month and why does it start mid-September?

Ramos was on the ballot for mayor of Springfield this September but did not garner enough votes to advance to the final election in November. He fell short of vote tallies by incumbent Mayor Domenic Sarno and City Councilor Justin Hurst. Sarno had 7,120 votes to Hurst’s 4,292. Ramos received the next highest at 2,032.

In his words: “Do it for the passion; or not at all. And always be your true self; voters want genuineness.”

• Read more: Amy Lavallee considers herself the mom of her whole town

Each day, we will introduce more leaders, and we’re always open to hear about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.