Biography
Originally from Jalisco, Mexico, Ramona Casas migrated to the Texas with her husband and young daughter. She began her community involvement volunteering at her daughter’s school and, later, at her local parish in Las Milpas. With the help of her mentor and friend, Sister Gerrie from Hermanas de la Misericordia, Casas began a nonprofit organization, A Resource In Serving Equality: ARISE. ARISE provides information and guidance on life and development skills in the Las Milpas community. Casas took on a leadership role to raise awareness about health, education, environmental justice, immigration rights, and more. Casas thrives as a promotora, educating the communities about the importance of life goals and political awareness.
Audio Clips
Interviewed by Michelle Tellez on March 2, 2023 in Alamo, Texas
Ramona Casas describes her arrival to the colonia Milpas and her gradual civic participation through the local PTA and Sister Gerrie.
Casas discusses the formation of ARISE and the impact of consciousness raising and organizing with immigrant women in South Texas.
Digital Archive
25 Year Anniversary Banner for ARISE.
Newspaper clipping featuring the work of ARISE.
Casas at an immigration rally with fellow ARISE members.