Building a powerhouse community of young, Latinx organizers in Orange County.
Who is Chispa?
Launching in 2017, Chispa operates with a focus in three tiers; base building, policy, and elections. By creating an infrastructure for young people to engage in policy campaigns, and taking a position on candidates, Chispa is an organization that represents young Latinos / Latinx in all levels of government.
The 2016 election became a catalyst for many movement organizations and communities, and it was no different in Santa Ana, CA. This was one of the first years when police unions intervened in the closure of a detention center. While the campaign centered on a strong debate, it was not enough to face the policy fight by the police union. It was this defeat that motivated local organizer Hairo Cortes to create an organization that filled two gaps that the campaign lacked- policy and youth voices.
In 2017 Chispa launched as a digital-focused organization. Naturally, it has become a political home for young Latinx people, engaging the local community on issues that impact them the most. Chispa endorses candidates that align and represent the organization’s values. From housing, immigration, policing, and more, Chispa focuses on three tiers; base building, advocacy, and impacting elections.
By creating an infrastructure for young people to engage in policy campaigns, and taking a position on candidates, Chispa is an organization that represents young Latinxs in all levels of local government.
