LA Upstander: Josue C.

Josue is one of those students teachers will always remember. From volunteering to read first to sharing his insights on social justice issues, Josue’s teachers can always count on him to lead discussion. This is especially helpful while teaching in the middle of a pandemic. Josue’s humble character speaks volumes: the quiet and respectful student who never hesitates to lift his peers and teachers up. This is a core belief at Animo Jackie Robinson - “we lift each other up" - and Josue has always exemplified this belief. It is simply so much more evident in the space of virtual teaching and learning.

Josue is a student in one of the smallest Ethnic Studies classes this year, which includes English Language Learners and Special Education students, and he has the utmost empathy for everyone. In fact, during the Disability Unit, Josue always asked intriguing, insightful questions. His presence in the class allows others to freely share because he listens and is empathetic, whether discussing Black Lives Matter, gender roles, or environmental racism. Josue also understands his current community, South Los Angeles, and the way that others view low income neighborhoods. This type of understanding has changed the dynamic of the class.