Jose’ Cabrera
Xavier University
Jose' Aulis-Cabrera, a second year student at Xavier University, is an activist and champion for immigrant rights. For the past five years Jose' has been involved with the Intercommunity Justice and Peace Center's (IJPC) "Youth Educating Society" or YES leadership program. Jose' and YES bring documented and undocumented immigrants and their friends and allies together to network and learn more about immigration issues as well as inspire them to take an active role in their community. As part of this program, Jose' has shared his own personal immigration experience with many diverse groups. Jose' also encourages his fellow classmates to share their own stories and talk about how immigration status affects our campus community and the community at large. Jose's drive to support the rights of the Hispanic community in Cincinnati is admirable and his efforts will greatly assist IJPC and YES as they work towards comprehensive immigration reform.
Personal Statement
As an undocumented immigrant I have witnessed the mistreatment many immigrants receive: from stereotypical myths, anti-immigration laws, and families that are separated because one member does not have the right documentation. This mistreatment has motivated me to fight for immigrant rights and bring awareness to these issues since 7th grade. My sophomore year I joined YES (Youth Educating Society), a group created by the Intercommunity Justice and Peace Center that supports students interested in learning and educating others about immigration policies. I now have a better understanding of immigration policies and have spoken to hundreds of people about my own experience and our broken system. As a result of my advocacy, I have discovered a passion for giving a voice to those who feel voiceless.
