Rodrigo Camarena, a passionate advocate for immigrants, has dedicated his life to supporting and empowering those navigating the complexities of the American immigration system. Growing up as the son of Mexican immigrants in northern Virginia, he witnessed firsthand the challenges and barriers faced by immigrant families, which fueled his determination to make a difference.
With a deep-seated desire to pursue a legal career focused on immigration law, Camarena initially faced setbacks when his LSAT scores fell short of his aspirations. Undeterred, he pursued a different path, studying economics and philosophy at New York University before obtaining a degree from the London School of Economics. Upon returning to the United States, he immersed himself in various roles within the realm of immigration advocacy, including serving as the executive director of Mixteca and the strategy director at Purpose Campaigns.
Currently, as the interim co-director of Pro Bono Net, Camarena is at the forefront of developing innovative tools to assist immigrants in their journey towards citizenship. One such tool, Citizenshipworks, serves as a comprehensive resource for permanent residents seeking to navigate the naturalization process with ease. By providing multilingual support and connecting individuals with nonprofit legal aid advocates, the platform aims to streamline and simplify the often daunting path to U.S. citizenship.
In response to the prevalent issue of wage theft impacting immigrant workers, Camarena and his team at Justicia Lab created the ¡Reclamo! app, designed to help individuals screen, report, and reclaim stolen wages. By leveraging technology to empower vulnerable populations, the app has proven to be a valuable asset in combating exploitation in the workplace, with over $1.5 million in stolen wages recovered since its launch in 2022.
Partnering with organizations like Make the Road New York, Camarena has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to advocating for immigrant rights and addressing systemic injustices. Through his collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, he continues to make a tangible impact on the lives of countless individuals striving for a better future in the United States.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Camarena finds solace in tending to his Brooklyn garden and enjoying quality time with his family. Whether cultivating fresh produce on his patio or exploring local farms with his wife and young son, he values the simple pleasures that bring joy and fulfillment to his life.
As a beacon of hope and resilience in the realm of immigrant advocacy, Rodrigo Camarena stands as a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication in creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
