Young people fuel growth of Texas civil rights group
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Kimberly Trujillo of Brownsville, Texas, recently became a leader within La Unión del Pueblo Entero (LUPE), a community nonprofit, as the organization sees increased involvement from younger members.
LUPE has experienced a surge in participation, particularly among people under 45, driven by concerns over immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump. Membership at LUPE’s 2026 convention nearly doubled compared to 2024, reaching 197 participants.
The increase in young members began after LUPE launched its “Valle Fuerte, Valle Libre” campaign in December, distributing information about rights in case of encounters with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. This campaign motivated people like Trujillo to join and take action, while offering practical steps for those wanting to support vulnerable community members. LUPE members prioritized immigration, the economy, and health at their recent convention, formulating resolutions and plans to address these issues.
Despite the increased engagement, LUPE has also faced internal challenges. Allegations of sexual assault against one of its founders, Cesar Chavez, surfaced earlier this year, leading the organization to remove a mural depicting him and refrain from participating in Cesar Chavez Day events. LUPE leaders acknowledged the impact of these allegations and emphasized their commitment to values of hope and justice while continuing their work.
The organization continues to focus on community empowerment, believing that collective action is essential for addressing the challenges faced by its members.
