We know the current political climate affects people in different ways. Many of us in the social justice movement have expressed feelings of fear, anger, and anxiety. However, despite hard times we want to share that our excitement has not diminished. July 12th marks our 6th Anniversary and we want you to celebrate with us!
At the CLI, we help foster the leadership who will navigate our immigrant community through the xenophobic and hate filled landscape. Yadira Juarez is a wonderful example. A first-generation immigrant, former farmworker, and mother of three children, she exemplifies the type of leaders we help develop. Yadira has been involved in the CAPACES Network even before our non-profit organization status was official. Since 2013, Yadira has worked with the Salem/Keizer Coalition for Equality as the Early Learning Program Director. Previous to that role she was employed by FHDC in the “Leyendo Juntos” program.
Embracing leadership in difficult times is not easy. Yadira states that for others leadership comes naturally. But admits that for her it’s taken a lot of effort getting over her fears. Yadira shares, “I understand the fear of our immigrant and farmworker community because I once had the same fear.” However, through CAPACES’ political education and gender justice trainings, she says, “I lost the fear, and I felt able to speak.”
Yadira has accepted to participate as our 6th Anniversary Master of Ceremonies. She views her role on stage as yet another step in her development as a leader. “I never imagined I would go from being a farmworker to being an M.C.” Yadira expresses gratitude toward all the non-profit organizations, including CAPACES, who have opened their doors, guided her, and helped her develop the talents she never knew she had.
The community needs more leaders like Yadira. CAPACES has the capacity to share informational resources to the community. From gender justice, to youth development, and political education, but we need financial support in developing these leaders that will represent our communities.
Can we count on your support to continue making this happen?
If you are unable to attend to hear Yadira speak at our 6th anniversary celebration on July 12th 2017 but would like to support CAPACES’ leadership programs please donate online today: www.capacesleadership.org/donate
In solidarity,
Laura Isiordia and the team at CAPACES Leadership Institute
