Interview with Youth Organizer Julie Flores Castillo
In a recent discussion, we spoke with Julie Flores Castillo, a youth organizer affiliated with the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) within the New Jersey Immigrant Rights Program. Julie is the recipient of the “Making a Difference Award,” a recognition that highlights the efforts of emerging leaders committed to positive change.
Understanding the Mission of the New Jersey Immigrant Rights Program
For over three decades, the New Jersey Immigrant Rights Program, part of AFSC, has been dedicated to serving immigrant communities by providing legal services and advocating for policies that support their needs. The program also engages in various initiatives aimed at empowering social workers and youth within the community.
A Personal Journey Toward Advocacy
Julie’s journey into activism began at a young age. At 14, her father was deported, an experience that brought trauma and isolation. Seeking support, she encountered an AFSC organizer, which opened her eyes to the world of advocacy focused on immigrant rights. This pivotal moment not only diverted her from her pain but also set her on a path to empower others enduring similar struggles.
Humanizing Immigration Issues
Julie emphasizes the importance of humanizing the narrative around immigration, which often gets reduced to statistics about border crossings or detentions. She argues that these figures overlook the shared experiences and challenges faced by real people in the community. Many individuals, including neighbors and teachers, are directly affected by immigration policies. By sharing her story, Julie strives to dismantle the divisive rhetoric that often surrounds this topic and remind others of the common humanity in these struggles.
The Broader Impact of Advocacy
Though Julie regards her advocacy work as a personal journey, she recognizes its significance in fostering a sense of resilience within the community. At 22, she reflects on how her experiences have transformed her into a leader who opens doors for other young people facing adversity. Through her activism, she aims to cultivate a supportive environment where individuals can find strength and purpose, despite difficult circumstances.
Addressing Immigration as a Constitutional Crisis
In discussing U.S. immigration policies, Julie challenges the perception of the issue as merely political. She characterizes the current situation as a constitutional crisis impacting not just immigrants but also citizens who experience detainment and deportation without proper legal processes. This framing underscores the urgency of reform that extends beyond immigration and touches on fundamental rights and freedoms.
Encouraging Young People to Take Action
Julie encourages her peers not to succumb to feelings of nihilism or pessimism. She urges young individuals to recognize their ability to effect change, citing numerous motivated peers who actively engage in advocacy. As both a County Committeewoman for the Red Bank Democratic Party and a recent candidate for the Red Bank School Board, Julie exemplifies how even younger voices can make impactful contributions to local politics.
Empowering Future Generations
The interview concluded with Julie’s empowering message to young people: fight against discouragement and participate actively in their communities. By sharing her journey and advocating for others, she embodies the belief that resilience is key to overcoming challenges. Julie’s insights and experiences serve as a powerful reminder that every individual has the potential to make a difference, regardless of the obstacles they face.
