Raquel Teran Shares the Importance of the Latino Vote and Immigration Reform

By Cindy G Castillo

Born in Douglas, AZ and raised in Agua Prieta, Sonora, Raquel Teran has witnessed first-hand the social issues that surround her town of origin.

“I have been involved in the issue of immigration for the last 10 years precisely because I’ve seen how the community where I grew up has been assaulted by the mainstream hate that occurs,” Teran recalls.

As current Director for the Mi Familia Vota organization, Teran’s primary focus is getting Latinos involved in the decision-making process when it comes to their community leaders.

“I am very fortunate to do what I love to do, which is be involved in the community organizing and connecting stories connecting with people and really knowing that the work that one does has an impact in people’s lives.”

The organization’s primary mission is to “unite the Latino community and its allies to promote social and economic justice through increased civic participation.” For Teran, justice lies on the removal of officials who in some way do not represent the values in the community.

Teran emphasizes the importance of making sure that there are “fair laws that are going to help our communities grow and that are going to be able to educate children, give them healthcare, [and] be able to have a different way of living,” she said.

Advocating for political justice and equality imposes challenges that Teran is willing to face. She recalls a time she spoke at the Sheriff’s office to the board of supervisors, and a couple days later received a notification for disorderly conduct at her house.

“Every single day there is a story; there is impact. The typical mother or father going to work and never knowing if they’re going to come back. People going through the system, that’s always the motivating factor that drives my work.”

Teran admits to the difficulties that approach along the road, but believes the future to be bright for the Latino community as more leaders emerge.

“I think that as time progresses we are building up our political power. We see more and more of our dreamers come out of the shadows and being very fearless; being just like the leaders that we need.”

Her ultimate message for the community is to never give up when it comes to activism. In order for the community to engage, we have to be dependable and know what the community wants and needs.

“In Arizona, it’s a harsh environment for the immigrant community. We certainly have to hope that we can stop the separation of families, making sure that we are watching closely and holding people accountable.”