Jose Diaz 's Send Off Celebration

A benefit fundraiser is being held for Jose Diaz. He has spent countless hours helping immigrants in Pomona and the surrounding areas. As we say goodbye, we want to express our gratitude for all his hard work and concern for others. Se está llevando a cabo una recaudación de fondos benéfica para José Díaz. Ha pasado incontables horas ayudando a inmigrantes en Pomona y sus alrededores. Al despedirnos, queremos expresar nuestra gratitud por todo su arduo trabajo y preocupación por los demás.

The entrance will include a plate of food and a drink. There will also be music and tickets will be sold at the door for raffle items and drinks. Please join us as we say farewell to our friend. Funds will be directly sent to his account to cover travel and future medical expenses as he will be going home to care for his wife. La entrada incluirá un plato de comida y una bebida. También habrá música y se venderán boletos en la puerta para artículos de rifa y bebidas. Por favor, únase a nosotros mientras nos despedimos de nuestro amigo. Los fondos se enviarán directamente a su cuenta para cubrir los viajes y los gastos médicos futuros, ya que se irá a cuidar a su esposa. Please RSVP By September 24,2022.

A little more about José Díaz Yáñez

José was born in Mexico City where he went to school up until his second year of high school.He studied to be a technician in radio and television, as well as carpentry.

He came to the U.S. in 2006 to financially support his family. Shortly after his arrival, he became a day laborer and started participating at the (Pomona Economic Opportunity Center)PEOC, where he later became the President of the worker’s council for several years representing the workers on the organization’s board of directors. During this time José partook in several seminars and training sessions on leadership development, job safety, design, and the development of green garden initiatives such as the lettuce growing project at the PEOC using a hydroponic system.

In 2008, José became an active member of Pomona Habla, an immigrant right’s organization advocating against police profiling of immigrants, he took on the responsibility of monitoring their telephone hotline. Since then, he has dedicated at least 10 years to reporting information to the community and following up on calls regarding police abuse. He participated in response to the targeted checkpoints in communities of color, directly and indirectly, with signs in the streets and other means, in order to prevent unjust vehicle impounds.

In 2012 he worked gathering thousands of signatures for AB60, a law that allows the undocumented community to obtain a driver’s license in California.

After AB60 passed, José understood the community would need support with the written portion of the DMV exam. He started a study circle with a small group, which later expanded and was held at dozens of schools and community spaces. With his help through these study circles, more than 1400 people were prepared for their driver's permit exams.

José has served as a Community Life Commissioner of Pomona (The first known undocumented immigrant appointed in Pomona), where he worked to promote a safer environment in the city and advocate for rent control. He provides support to mobile home and apartment tenants faced with injustices on the part of their landlords. He actively participates in the defense of his community and their rights, setting an example for upcoming organizers.

Host or Publisher Melissa Ayala