Membership in the Trans-Pacific Partnership could reengage Washington at a time when Asia and Latin America are signing new trade pacts.

The forms get sent out in March, but the U.S. Census Bureau already launched an awareness campaign for the 2010 survey. With federal funding and political clout at stake in the tally, Hispanic leaders urge Latinos—historically undercounted—to participate.

President Obama needs to summon the political courage to push through free trade.

House Democrats introduced a bill for comprehensive immigration reform on December 15, declaring: "The time for waiting is over." A Senate bill is expected in early 2010. Still, even with congressional action up and running, the road to reform could be a slow one.

In Omaha, NE, a new gateway city for Latinos, an AS/COA luncheon brought together the mayor and private-sector executives to discuss Latinos’ socioeconomic contributions and the benefits of workforce integration efforts.

With the U.S. Congress soon set to adjourn for the year, it leaves behind much unfinished business when it come to Western Hemisphere affairs.

As Brazil's influence on the world stage increases, its partnership with the United States should be based on mutual recognition and respect, writes COA's Eric Farnsworth in Folha de São Paulo. Economic and political security should not come at either country's expense. (em português)