Angelica Pacheco
Freshwoman at Mesa Community College
DACA Recipient
“Having a voice to be able to make a change is what makes me passionate about helping those who are afraid to speak out, to be able to stand alongside with the students and families of the communities to advocate for higher education is what I’m willing to work towards.”
Angel Palazuelos
Senior at Metro Tech High School
Undocumented Student
“Education is essential for self and community development; We must stand together to defend against this great injustice and demand what is rightfully ours. As an individual who struggles and sees many suffer these same ordeals motivates me to continue the fight against the unjust laws that target specific individuals and because of borders, dissuade them from pursuing higher education.”
Araceli Lopez
Senior at Xavier College Preparatory
Student Ally
“I am passionate about this work because I believe that students are our future and that everyone deserves an opportunity to receive higher education regardless of their immigration status. Through Aliento, I want to help in any way possible to take action for this issue as well as inform my peers and create a community of support.”
Darian Benitez
Junior at Brophy College Preparatory
"A person's right to an education is like their right to sustenance. When someone is denied their education, whether directly or indirectly, they are being denied the nourishment and strength they need to defend themselves against other forms of oppression. I am committed to fighting to give undocumented and DACA students the opportunity they need to accomplish their dreams."
Denise Garcia
Senior at Mesa High School
Ally - Mixed Status Family
“Throughout my high school career, I've witnessed students having to seek alternative routes to further their education, making the transition from high school to college twice as hard. This is why I believe it is vital to educate community members and legislators on why in-state tuition should be accessible to every Arizona high school graduate regardless of their status.”
Maria Garcia
Senior at Tempe High School
Undocumented Student
“I remember seeing the students I looked up to work incredibly hard and yet, still had to pay out of state tuition. I am passionate about this work because I want to give my community this change they deserve. WE also have dreams, and goals. WE deserve this. “
Mario Montoya
Senior at Arizona State University
DACA Recipient
“Education is a crucial factor of shaping the future of generations to come. I believe education is something worth fighting for and I want to be part of the movement to ensure every Arizona student has access to higher education regardless of their Immigration status.”