Aliento Features: Ignacio Parra Fierro
From Los Mochis to the Capitol: My Story as an Aliento Fellow
I still remember being ten years old, packing our suitcases into an old navy-blue SUV and leaving Los Mochis, Sinaloa, without really understanding what was happening. It felt like just a trip. It wasn't. That moment changed my life forever.
Growing up in Avondale, Arizona, I had to learn a new language, adapt to a new culture, and face the reality of being a Dreamer. There were times I felt out of place or less than my friends. Kids called me names at school. But through it all, my parents showed me what resilience looks like. My dad waking up at 4 a.m. to work in the Arizona heat. My mom doing the same at a bakery. Their sacrifices pushed me to care not just about my own future, but about my community.
I first heard about Aliento during my senior year of high school, when they were campaigning for Prop 308, the ballot measure that gave Arizona Dreamer students access to in-state tuition. That policy changed my life. It made college possible for me. I had been following Aliento since around 2022, and even through social media, I felt a sense of belonging I hadn't felt in a long time. I knew I wanted to give back to an organization that had done so much for students like me.
When I joined the fellowship, I was nervous. Now that I'm near the end, I realize how lucky I am to be surrounded by people who truly understand and support me.
Certain policies we tracked hit close to home. HCR 2027, which would repeal Prop 308, stood out immediately. It doesn't just threaten my opportunity. It threatens my little sister's. It reminded me how quickly things can be taken away. SB 1051, which would require people to show immigration status before receiving hospital care, affected me deeply, too. No one should be denied care based on where they were born. That is inhumane, plain and simple.
These issues made me realize how important it is to speak up. During Education Day, I had the chance to talk directly with legislators about how these policies impact real people. Sharing our stories was powerful. Even when we don't change minds right away, we make sure they hear us. We remind them that borders may divide countries, but they should never strip away our humanity.
One of my proudest moments was serving as a team lead during Education Day. Walking into the Capitol and leading a group from the University of Arizona was something I never imagined I could do. This fellowship helped me become more confident and outgoing. I stopped being afraid of being judged for my status and started embracing who I am. Meeting Governor Hobbs felt surreal, but it reminded me that our voices belong in those rooms.
My advice to future fellows: be yourself. Share your story. Build relationships with your cohort, because those connections can last a lifetime. Every story matters and has the power to create change.
I am heading into my senior year at the University of Arizona, preparing for the LSAT, and planning to attend law school after I graduate. My goal is to become a lawyer and advocate for people who share experiences like mine. This fellowship taught me that my story has power. I will keep using it.
