052| The Quest to End Gun Violence feat. José Alfaro
Imagine a world where your zip code doesn't predict your lifespan, where gun violence is not the norm, and where every voice in the fight for safety is heard. José Alfaro , the Director of Latinx Leadership and Community Engagement at Everytown for Gun Safety, reveals his transformative journey on our latest podcast episode. From dreams of space exploration to the stark realities of urban streets, Jose's life is a landscape of bold decisions and profound mentorship that have shaped his mission to uplift marginalized voices in the battle against gun violence.
Our conversation with José is a tapestry woven with the threads of heritage, struggle, and resilience. He speaks candidly about the summer that forever altered his trajectory, the cultural shock of collegiate life juxtaposed with rough New York beginnings, and the pivotal moments that nearly saw him enlist in the Navy. His story exemplifies how the powerful influences of spirituality and ancestry guide our choices and forge our paths. By sharing his encounters with black liberation intellect and his commitment to community service, José's insights cut to the core of what it means to serve and elevate those around us.
As we trace José's steps from SIT Graduate Institute to the frontlines of political activism, his narrative is a masterclass in the pursuit of purpose-driven work. His ascension to leadership roles in mobilizing Latinx communities and his personal revelations about negotiating fair compensation without forsaking mission alignment are as instructive as they are inspiring. José's openness about his own salary in the social sector is as much about transparency as it is about empowerment. Join us to hear how one man's life is a testament to the belief that every step we take can lead to a greater good.