Lucia Veronica Carmona
I am the Community Engagement Coordinator at Ngage New Mexico an am currently working on a parent engagement program with predominantly Spanish speaking families within Doña Ana County. I am a native of Cd. Juárez, Chihuahua and a descendent of Raramuris ancestors. I have more than 20 years’ experience in community organizing, including 8 years at the Colonias Development Council as lead organizer and have dedicated my life to social justice and immigrant rights working with rural communities to develop leadership and self-sufficiency. As a result of experience working at the colonias, I understand the barriers that families confront on a daily basis living on the border. Language, transportation, health care access, affordable housing, quality childcare services, lack of jobs and other social and economic issues prevent many families from supporting their children’s success. My passion is to contribute to social change in different ways, including using my talents as a singer of Corridos Mexicanos and traditional Mexican music to engage families and children in a healing process of self-identity and self-appreciation.