Hernán Chávez

My time living in the United States is relatively short, but I have become very aware of the social and political issues that are currently affecting those around me. I arrived into the United States when I was thirteen years old. I came from Michoacán, México looking for safety and better economic opportunities in a country where I didn't have a home or friends. As an immigrant, I was forced to face language and cultural barriers. Despite not knowing any English and having a big economic burden on my back when I first arrived into the United States, I accomplished to graduate as one of the valedictorians of my high school. I also received a full-ride scholarship that will allow me to go to college. In the Fall, I will be attending Willamette University. I will not only get the chance to get a college education, but most importantly, I will get the chance to build bridges for those children who will come after me.

I have always been passionate about politics and social issues that affect our communities. However, I have never quite had an opportunity to deal with these topics entirely. APP has provided me with that great opportunity. Initially, I got involved in the work that APP does by educating my high school classmates about political issues that may have a huge impact on their futures and the futures of their families. APP has also trained me to do voter registration, which I have done on multiple occasions. In my opinion, voter registration is essential to the well-bing of our communities because it helps to project and raise our voices. 

Fun fact: I enjoy playing soccer!