Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the things that truly matter and to express gratitude for the opportunities and people that shape our lives. For me, this year has been full of milestones—both personally and in the work we’ve done together at Our America.
This year I became a U.S. citizen. It’s hard to describe the deep gratitude I feel for this country and the opportunities it has provided me and my family. Becoming a father this year has only deepened that gratitude, as I think about the values I want to pass on to my son.
I want him to know that if he works hard and perseveres, he can achieve the American Dream. I want him to know that freedom is fragile and must be protected by each generation. I want him to know that America welcomes people of all backgrounds, giving them the freedom to pursue happiness however they see it.
As a native-born Mexican, I know minorities haven’t always had an easy time in this country. My own family struggled for many years. But we persevered, always believing that we, too, could achieve the American Dream, or as we called it, El Sueño Americano.
Our America is thankful for our volunteers and supporters who see and celebrate the shared values that make America a land of opportunity: freedom of speech, thought, and religion; fair and honest elections, safe communities, and a strong economy.
None of the work Our America has accomplished in communities across the country would have been possible without our supporters. As we continue this fight together, we will ensure that our children and grandchildren will inherit the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy.
In Georgia and Arizona, our efforts have flourished.
This year, I attended postcard parties in Georgia during Hispanic Heritage Month, where our Georgia Grassroots Director Carli Eli, partnered with local Hispanic restaurants to bring the community together and inspire civic engagement.
In Arizona, I met incredible volunteers, organized by our Arizona Grassroots Director, Paul Parisi who, along with many of you, bravely spoke out at the Tucson City Council, standing up for what we believe in and proving the power of grassroots action.
Our work also had a tangible impact on the national stage. Our grassroots volunteers helped Representative Juan Ciscomani secure reelection in Arizona’s 6th District—a critical win that helped shape the balance of power in Congress. These victories are a testament to the dedication of our volunteers, supporters, and team members who share a commitment to making a difference.
As I reflect on this year, I’m reminded of what it means to be an American. The freedoms and opportunities we enjoy are not just abstract ideas—they’re the foundation that enables us to persevere, to fight for our communities, and to achieve our dreams.
This Thanksgiving, I am grateful for my family, for the milestones I’ve reached, and for the incredible people I’ve met through Our America. Together, we’ve made 2024 a year of progress and purpose, and I can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish next. Thank you for being part of this journey.
