Immigration is a hot topic in 2025, with President Trump’s efforts to deport thousands of illegal immigrants sparking fear in many communities. In boroughs of New York, many fear what their futures will look like with these changes. In the midst of this, Liliana Martinez, a junior at Cardozo High School, has become a passionate advocate for immigration rights.
Activism plays an important role in a large state like New York, allowing the voices of people from various backgrounds to be heard. Martinez is determined to make an impact.
“Being an activist means making a change and speaking for those who don’t have a voice,” she said. She believes that in order to build a strong community, it’s important to pursue equity and foster meaningful growth.
Martinez reflected on the events she has witnessed living in New York, sharing, “I’ve witnessed the injustices faced by immigrants, fueled by racism and oppression.” She believes immigrants should live without the fear of being deported due to their immigration status.
“One can be racially profiled based on one’s skin color, I believe everyone should have the same privilege to strive for a better future regardless of where they come from,” she explained.
As club president of La Ciudad Hispana — a club in where hispanic culture is embraced through food, games, and activities — Martinez advocates for getting everyone involved to support the rights of immigrants. She further explained that she brings up the topic of immigrant rights to her friends and family, as well as her club.
“I’ve utilized social media platforms like Instagram and Tiktok to share information about social injustices, ways to get involved and how to be a supportive ally,” Martinez said.
Activism has taught her a lot about being persistent for a rightful cause. She reflected that learning that every action, no matter how small, is important to bringing forth change. She also explained that any and all change start with the individual.
“Being an activist in a diverse school like Cardozo means managing different perspectives while finding common ground for change,” she stated. “It means listening and ensuring that every voice is respected and heard.”
Overall, Martinez hopes to teach the students at Cardozo to be the voice for the voiceless and small acts such as spreading awareness to a classmate, friends, and other students. “Everyone will find their place at Cardozo,” she expressed.
