Tell me of one successful society on our planet and I can point out the think tanks that shape that society's function, help set its priorities and drive the nature of its economic and social policies. Without a doubt, we cannot overestimate the value of the insight gained through the focused brain power of intellectuals engaged in analyzing the condition of vital components that are the engines of a civil society.

The creation of the New York Latino Research Network (NYLARNet) is, to borrow a famous quote, a small step for those that have envisioned and created it but a giant leap for New York's Latino communities. The work that will be produced by this research vehicle in the areas of health, education, immigration and the formulation of public policy is a welcomed and much needed contribution that will begin to fill an analytical void in the web of human interaction and politics in our state.

The work of the Center for Latino, Latin American, and Caribbean Studies (CELAC)at the University at Albany, the Center for Puerto Rican Studies (CENTRO) at Hunter College, and the Institute for Urban and Minority Education (IUME)at Teachers' College of Columbia University will help focus government's attention and resources to issues of critical importance to New York State's Latino communities. Their analytical findings will lend support for creative new public policy initiatives, and their research will provide updated insight into the ever-growing economic and social influence of Latinos in the Empire State.

I am proud to have played a role in the creation of NYLARNet. As a policymaker, I am enthusiastic about the opportunities and changes that will come about for the Latino communities of New York through the research of Latino scholars and other professionals. NYLARNet is a reality that has long been in the waiting. Its potential can be limitless and its promise is priceless.

Under my direction, the New York State Assembly Puerto Rican/Hispanic Task Force has taken the initial steps to provide the financial building blocks that will help propel NYLARNet's immense potential. This collaboration is an example of initiatives being developed by New York's Latino political leaders as we endeavor to empower our communities.

As an entire society comes to recognize that its wellbeing is hinged to the wellbeing of Latinos, NYLARNet's contributions will demonstrate the great potential available to solve social ills when inclusiveness and diversity are respected factors by community leaders concerned with the wellbeing of all New Yorkers.

NYLARNet represents the dawning of a new day. Let us welcome and support it together.