In recent years, the Trump administration has intensified its anti-immigrant rhetoric and policies, causing fear and uncertainty in immigrant communities across the United States. But amidst this hostile environment, there are brave individuals who are actively fighting against these injustices and defending the rights of immigrants. One such person is Ron Gochez, a schoolteacher from Los Angeles and a prominent activist with Unión Del Barrio. Ron’s tireless efforts and leadership in the fight against ICE have made him a crucial figure in the resistance movement.
As a teacher, Ron has always been committed to empowering his students and advocating for social justice. He firmly believes that education is a powerful tool that can be used to challenge oppressive systems and create a more equitable society. However, it was not until he became involved with Unión Del Barrio that Ron truly found his calling. The organization, which was founded in 1981, is dedicated to defending the rights and dignity of Chicano and immigrant communities in Southern California. With their strong grassroots approach and commitment to direct action, Unión Del Barrio quickly became a force to be reckoned with in the fight against ICE.
Ron’s involvement with Unión Del Barrio began in 2003, when he joined the organization as a youth leader. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a key member of the leadership team, known for his passionate speeches and unwavering commitment to the cause. Ron’s personal experiences as the child of Mexican immigrants and his deep understanding of the struggles faced by immigrant communities have made him a powerful voice for change.
Under Ron’s leadership, Unión Del Barrio has organized numerous protests, rallies, and direct actions to resist ICE’s cruel and inhumane policies. In 2017, when the Trump administration announced its plan to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, Ron was at the forefront of the fight. He helped organize massive protests across Los Angeles, demanding that Congress provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers. Thanks to the efforts of Ron and other activists, DACA recipients were able to renew their status, providing them with temporary relief from the threat of deportation.
But Ron’s activism extends beyond just organizing protests. He is also dedicated to educating the community about their rights and providing resources to those in need. He regularly hosts Know Your Rights workshops, where he teaches immigrants how to protect themselves from ICE raids and other forms of harassment. He also works with local organizations to provide legal assistance and support to undocumented immigrants facing deportation proceedings.
In addition to his work with Unión Del Barrio, Ron is also a founding member of the Southern California Immigration Coalition, a group that brings together various organizations and individuals to coordinate efforts in the fight against ICE. Through this coalition, Ron has helped bring attention to the injustices faced by immigrant communities and has successfully pressured local governments to take a stand against ICE and declare themselves sanctuary cities.
Ron’s activism has not gone unnoticed. He has been featured in various media outlets, including The New York Times, for his role in the resistance movement. In 2018, he was awarded the prestigious César Chávez Legacy Award for his tireless efforts in defending the rights of immigrants. But for Ron, the recognition is not what drives him. It is the desire to create a better world for immigrants and future generations that keeps him going.
In the face of the Trump administration’s cruel and inhumane policies, Ron Gochez and activists like him are showing us that there is still hope. They are leading the fight against ICE and inspiring others to join in the struggle for justice and equality. Their courage and determination remind us that we must not stay silent in the face of injustice, but stand up and resist. As Ron himself once said, “We are not fighting for ourselves, we are fighting for our children, our grandchildren, and for the generations to come.” It is this unwavering commitment to the cause that makes Ron Gochez a true hero and a beacon of hope for immigrant communities across the country.
