Antonio is our December 2019 Featured Giant. He is the Interim Executive Director of Jolt Texas, a progressive Latinx organization focused on building the political power and influence of young Latinxs. Check out our full interview with him below!

Jenny Kearney: How did find yourself in the role of activist?

Antonio Arellano: As a young Latino in Texas I have experienced firsthand the challenges my community currently faces. I understand the urgency of this moment and recognize that our freedom is at stake. I come to this work with a clear mission in mind: to bring disadvantaged communities of color the respect and representation we deserve.

As an immigrant in this country I grew up witnessing the discrimination and racism my parents had to endure in order to provide my siblings and me with opportunities and a better future. I know that my dreams are not mine alone, but the shared dreams of my ancestors and over 11 million undocumented immigrants that call this country home. I do this work to make sure their sacrifices weren’t in vain.

JK: What has been your most important accomplishment as a community leader?

AA: My contributions to increase civic participation among the Latino electorate, as the Interim Executive Director of Jolt, have resulted in the engagement and mobilization of thousands of young Latino voters in Texas. Together we are building the youth-led movement that will transform the Lone Star State.

Latinos have historically been told that in the future we will be powerful and unstoppable. Well, I am here to tell you that the future has arrived and we refuse to wait any longer to be brown, black, and brilliant.

At Jolt, we are empowering young Latinos to recognize their potential to spark change by preparing the next generation of community leaders. Helping create that pipeline of Latinx leaders, and laying down a foundation for communities of color to thrive in Texas, is what I am most proud of.

JK: What have you been working on recently?

AA: I have set ambitious goals going into 2020 to match the magnitude of this moment. Recently I’m working on creating a census campaign to mobilize the largest number of Latino census-takers in modern Texas history.

I have also been developing a strategy to put Texas on the path to become a leader in climate change. I personally believe we must begin seeing Texas as the solution and not as the problem. The current climate crisis presents an opportunity to innovate our workforce and create millions of new jobs. We must lead on climate justice.

JK: What is something about the work you do and the Latinx community you work with that you wish more people knew?

AA: Young Latinos will write the next chapter of Texas history. Our community is resilient and powerful. We believe in a Texas that is diverse and inclusive. Latinos want to be heard and valued; we matter.