TULSA, Oklahoma — Lorena Rivas, Senior Attorney and CEO of Rivas & Associates proudly supported an initiative led by Dolores Huerta Elementary’s Tulsa Changemakers cohort of 4th and 5th graders. The students, guided by their coach Alexander Collin, took on the challenge of addressing deportation and anti-immigrant sentiments affecting their community. Through this collaborative effort, the students sparked meaningful dialogue and empowered their classmates and families with valuable resources.
The project began in March when Coach Collin connected with Rivas & Associates. The students, motivated by worries shared by their classmates, wanted to make their school and community feel safe and supported. Lorena met with six students in the cohort on March 28th to provide them with insights into the complexities of immigration and deportation.
During their discussion, the students asked pressing and heartfelt questions like, “Why are people getting deported?” and “What can we do to stop this from happening?” They expressed their desire to support their classmates and raise awareness within their wider community.
To equip them with tools for action, Lorena shared Know Your Rights material, offering a practical way for students to educate themselves, their peers, and parents. The highlight of the collaboration occurred on April 23rd, when the students hosted a Know Your Rights assembly at Dolores Huerta Elementary, an event that offered families much-needed information on handline immigration challenges and fostering a sense of security within their community.
This project culminated in a powerful Pitch Night presentation, where the students showcased their work and advocacy efforts to parents and community members. Their dedication demonstrated the power of young voices in driving change and tackling sensitive issues head-on.
“We are honored to have played a role in this meaningful initiative,” said Lorena Rivas. “The courage and determination shown by these students remind us all of the importance of creating a more inclusive and understanding community.”
About Rivas & Associates
Empowering Immigrants, Building Futures
Rivas & Associates is a leading immigration law firm based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, committed to helping immigrants across the United States make their American dream an American reality. Founded by Lorena Rivas, the firm is known for its innovative approach, strategic advice, and unwavering dedication to securing positive results for its clients and their families. Rivas & Associates offers representation in a wide range of immigration matters, from family-based petitions to deportation defense, naturalization, and more.