Aliento Features: Octavio Garcia Ramirez

Tell us about yourself.

I am Octavio Garcia Ramirez. I am a second-year student at ASU. I am part of a mixed-status family, and my mom is from Mexicali, Baja California. I enjoy cooking and eating and love cats, basketball, and walks.

How did you find out about Aliento?

I got involved with Aliento because when I came to college, I wanted to be involved on campus as well as be part of something bigger. Aliento’s mission to support families from mixed-status was also a big reason because of my background. Aliento helped me get involved while also allowing me to advocate for issues that I wanted to fight for. My first encounter with Aliento was with Aliento@ASU. They were holding their Storytelling Through Art event, and I was invited by Nicholas Hernandez, who is a former fellow and my Pana. I remember being at the event and learning more about the organization and what its mission was, as well as how fun the event was. After that event, I started to hear more about Aliento.

What moments from the fellowship are you most proud of?

One of my proudest moments was when Prop 308 was passed during the 2022 Election. Seeing all the hard work that the organization has put in was very exciting to see. It wasn't just a success for the campaign but a turning point in the bigger picture because it was one of the first pieces of legislation in the past decade to help people from mixed status communities. The most important thing that I have learned during this Fellowship was how the youth have power to make change in their communities. I was amazed to see how young the organization was and how much work they were doing. I find it comforting to know that people younger than me are getting involved in issues that they care about.

How did Education Day impact you?

Education Day impacted me because I was allowed to speak on issues that I was passionate about instead of speaking on someone's behalf. As someone who works in the Capital and is always interacting with the legislative system, I was excited for Education Day because it allowed me to use the skills that I have learned to help my community. I felt confident in my group's ability to speak with legislators.

How would you describe this fellowship to someone who is looking to apply?

This fellowship is a stepping stone into becoming a professional advocate. No matter what career path or major you choose, being an advocate for your community will always be one of your jobs. Aliento has given me the opportunity and tools to become a professional advocate everywhere I go. This fellowship will help you understand the process that is necessary to create change in your community.

What’s next for you?

Currently, I am an intern for the Secretary of State and will continue to be one until May 5. Two weeks after my internship ends, I will be the Lead Peer Mentor for the Migratory Student Summer Academy, which will bring high schoolers from farm working backgrounds into ASU for a week to help them learn more about the college experience. I want to continue to promote higher education in my community.