Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Ramirez.
Thanks for sharing your story with us. So, tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am an immigrant, activist, speaker, community organizer, & believer. I was born in Mexico; I’ve lived in Texas since I was two years old, and I’m the proud daughter of immigrant parents.
My story begins with understanding where I come from — raised in a small neighborhood in Dallas called Pleasant Grove taught me at a very young age, the impact your zip code can make in determining the direction your life will make. Because of that, my parents wanted me to have access to a better education, so I grew up in and out school districts but ended up in the DISD system.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Things have never been easy due to the imbalance of equity for black and brown students to obtain an education. As a result, it pushed me to address these issues at universities, churches, with student organizations, and in my community. In order to, mobilize and equip young generations to break this outdated system made to suppress minorities
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I graduated with a degree in political science and landed my first job at a refugee resettlement agency. Where my knowledge in immigration law grew abundantly, my passion for immigrant rights flourished, and refugees now held a special place in my heart. Currently, I work for the Equal Justice Center as a Paralegal Community Advocate, where we empower low-income families, workers, and communities to achieve fair treatment in the workplace and the justice system, regardless of their immigration status. Working alongside a group of people who believe in seeking justice for a community so dear to my heart has been the biggest reward.
Today, I am married to my best friend, Miztli. He’s been my biggest supporter throughout this journey and has challenged me to pursue my dreams every day. We also have a Youtube channel where we vlog about our adventures. Check us out! We also love doing food and movie reviews. He is my rock.
Lastly, I’m still that girl who grew up in Pleasant Grove who doesn’t believe in getting out of the hood; instead, I believe in coming back and changing it by empowering low-income communities of color and informing them of their rights, whether its worker’s rights or immigrant rights. That’s where the real change happens. I want to continue taking everything I’ve learned from my experience and work towards making a small difference in my community.
What were you like growing up?
I attended John W. Runyon Elementary School, Fred F. Florence Middle School, and Skyline High school. As a first-generation student, I had to find answers for myself, learn from trial and error, all while helping my parents navigate in the country we now called home.
The pivotal point in my life was the opportunity to be a part of the magnet program at Skyline High school and getting accepted into the Advanced Social Science program. Thanks to teachers who cared, I had exposure to more than I could have imagined. I got involved in government competitions, became student body president senior year, and began to take on more leadership roles as a student. However, college seemed uncertain for me, and reaching success looked a bit farfetched.
Being first-generation, undocumented, with no money were all reasons to stop me from getting a college degree. However, after seeking guidance and mentorship, I learned that I could attend a university regardless of my immigration status. So I decided to enroll at Texas A&M University-Commerce. This decision changed my life. I felt empowered to take hold of my future, and by the grace of God, I knew I had a purpose. My purpose was to allow my community to believe that the color of your skin, your immigration status, or your socioeconomic status, will not determine your success.
Who else deserves credit – have you had mentors, supporters, cheerleaders, advocates, clients or teammates that have played a big role in your success or the success of the business? If so – who are they and what role did they plan / how did they help.
Thankful for teachers in high school who believed in the potential of their students and thankful for my alma mater’s Hispanic Outreach program for guiding me throughout my four years of college. And my biggest supporters, the reason I became an activist, my parents. They have taught me the true meaning of hard work and sacrifice, los amo! My husband, Miztli, who has has believed in me, supported me, listened to my wildest dreams and has always challenged me to continue to pursue my passions. I love you babe!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bonfire.com/dontlookaway/
- Phone: 4692795814
- Email: stephrcollabs@gmail.com
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC4LsD_HsddhQvpZDJcvf4g
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition, please let us know here.
