Immigrant Advocate’s Journey from Employee to Community Leader
Mario Pena arrived in Waukegan in 1971, journeying from his home in Mexico. He balanced a full-time position at Abbott Laboratories with part-time work at a local 240-unit apartment complex, all while adapting to life in the United States.
Citizenship Goals and the Road Ahead
After meeting the residency requirements, Pena eagerly applied for U.S. citizenship. He completed the necessary paperwork and attended an interview, but the waiting game for the oath of allegiance began. His apartment manager reached out to then-U.S. Representative John Porter, urging expedited processing. Ultimately, Pena was sworn in as a citizen in December 1985.
Commitment to Empowering Fellow Immigrants
Once he became a citizen, Pena felt a strong calling to assist other immigrants in their quest for U.S. citizenship. He started developing relationships through his church and community gatherings, gradually building a network of support. Initially, progress was slow, but his resourcefulness paid off as the number of individuals seeking assistance grew.
A Remarkable Impact Across Borders
Before relocating to Texas in 2010, Pena made an indelible mark, helping over 5,300 individuals from 39 countries across three continents successfully register as citizens and voters. He co-founded HACES with Maria Elana Jonas, solidifying his role as a community advocate while serving two terms as Waukegan City Trustee.
Community Recognition for His Dedication
Pena will be honored at the Fiestas Patrias event at La Canoa Restaurant in Waukegan, celebrating his contributions to the community. His motivation stems from a profound belief in serving others, which he attributes to divine inspiration. Pena describes the fulfillment he derives from his work as a priceless gift.
Pioneering Citizenship Support Initiatives
In 1986, Pena dedicated three months to assisting nine individuals in becoming citizens, actively engaging with churches in Waukegan, Highwood, Round Lake, and Mundelein. He realized the importance of focusing his efforts and connected with what is now Blessed Trinity Parish. Through Sundays, he announced his availability at Mass to guide aspiring citizens through the necessary paperwork and processes.
Leadership and Advocacy on the Board
Pena’s involvement extended to local governance when he was elected to the Waukegan Township Board of Trustees in 2001, and subsequently re-elected in 2005. His tenure marked a significant milestone as he became the first Hispanic community commissioner on the board, providing critical insights into the needs of the Hispanic community. His dedication did not go unnoticed; former County Supervisor Patricia Jones commended him for his visionary work to empower underrepresented populations.
A Collaborative Effort for Change
Pena’s partnership with Maria Elana Jonas blossomed during their shared mission to assist immigrants in achieving citizenship. Their combined efforts led to the establishment of HACES in 2005, an organization devoted to meeting the diverse needs of immigrant communities. This initiative included volunteer activities, workshops, citizenship classes, and immigration counseling, significantly impacting thousands of lives.
Lasting Impressions and Community Leadership
Dulce Ortiz, the executive director of the Mano Mano Family Resource Center and a Waukegan Township trustee, reflects on her first encounter with Pena and the profound influence he had on her own journey as a leader in the Hispanic community. She admires his unwavering commitment, noting how he managed a full-time job while dedicating weekends to help others navigate the complexities of citizenship.
A Diverse Impact on Immigration
Pena’s assistance extended beyond just Mexican immigrants, reaching individuals from various backgrounds, including those from Central and South America, Yugoslavia, the Soviet Union, Canada, and Greece. His approach to guiding people through the naturalization process laid the groundwork for him to later help them register to vote. As a Deputy Registrar, he continued his advocacy by meeting community members after church services, encouraging civic engagement with the mantra, “It’s your duty to go out and vote. You’re using your vote as your voice.”
