Our Story
Over the past five years, as IVEJ grew into a formal organization with eight staff organizers, we have mobilized across a range of campaigns for social, economic, and environmental justice along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Imperial Valley Equity and Justice (IVEJ) was formed along the U.S.-Mexico border as a volunteer mutual aid and advocacy group in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Our impact
Our campaigns range from COVID-19 vaccine equity and equitable distributions of federal relief funds, to our multi-year effort to secure local jobs and environmental protections from large-scale lithium mining. IVEJ leads mutual aid networks, assists asylum seekers, and is committed to training the next generation of homegrown organizers and visionaries.
Mission
We are artists, organizers, and movement builders—committed to creating a just, fair Imperial Valley where everyone belongs.
VISION
Our vision is simple: an Imperial Valley where families can live, work, dream, and thrive.
VALUES
No sacrifice zones
Solidarity through collective action
Accessibility and inclusion
Community care, mutual aid, and resources for all
We Are IVEJ
staff
Daniela Flores, MPH
Executive Director
Fernanda Vega
Director of
Organizational & Community Impact
Michelle Flores
Activate Imperial Manager
Anahi Araiza
Manager of
Policy and Research
Dylan Castillo
Manager of
Community Organizing
Sergio Ojeda
Director of Arts & Cultural Impact
Michelle Guerrero
Volunteer Engagement Coordinator
Ambar Garcia
Manager of Operations & Finance
Gael Garcia
Community Organizer
board
Daniela Flores, President; Jacob Rodriguez, Vice President; Dylan Castillo, Chief Financial Officer; Carmina Ramirez, Secretary; Daniela Vega, Board Member; Luis Flores, Board Member;
Daniela Flores, President; Jacob Rodriguez, Vice President; Dylan Castillo, Chief Financial Officer; Carmina Ramirez, Secretary; Daniela Vega, Board Member; Luis Flores, Board Member;
WORK WITH US
At IVEJ, we strive to cultivate a team culture that is high-energy, impactful, joyous and relationship-driven. We are committed to investing in and cultivating leadership at every level of staffing