Elsa Marie Collins and America Ferrera: A Partnership for Change

Elsa Marie Collins, the co-founder of "This Is About Humanity," is a passionate advocate for Latino issues and social impact. Her upbringing on both sides of the US-Mexico border instilled in her a deep understanding of the challenges faced by families and communities.

Collins' work is fueled by her desire to amplify Latino voices and ensure their stories and concerns are heard across various industries, from film to politics and social justice.

Her partnership with America Ferrera, a longtime supporter of "Poderistas," a Latina platform co-founded by Collins, exemplifies the power of collaboration in advocating for change.

Their shared commitment to empowering the Latino community and addressing critical issues like immigration and family separation is evident in their collaborative projects.

This Is About Humanity: Empowering Families and Communities

This Is About Humanity (TIAH) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about separated and reunified families at the US-Mexico border.

TIAH provides daily meals to over 3,000 families and offers legal and educational support.

Collins invites volunteers to join her on trips to the border to witness the work firsthand.

The organization also honors individuals from the Latino community for their contributions. Last year, it recognized Lauren Sánchez, and this year, it will honor philanthropist Florence Azria.

The Power of Hollywood Voices: Influencing Change

Collins believes that Hollywood voices and influencers play a critical role in amplifying information and reaching a broader audience.

She emphasizes the importance of using platforms to connect with micro-influencers in local communities, fostering grassroots action and engagement.

By showcasing stories and experiences, influencers can inspire others to become active participants in social change and amplify the voices of marginalized communities.

The collaboration between Collins and America Ferrera demonstrates how Hollywood figures can leverage their influence to raise awareness and mobilize support for critical social issues.

Navigating the Complexities of Social Impact

Collins acknowledges the challenges of maintaining public interest in social issues amidst a global landscape saturated with information.

She emphasizes the need for consistent engagement and ongoing efforts to keep issues top of mind for individuals.

Her work with Poderistas exemplifies this principle, emphasizing the importance of daily engagement and advocacy, rather than sporadic bursts of activism.

Collins believes that fostering a sense of community and belonging is key to sustained engagement and a long-term commitment to social change.

Expanding the Reach of TIAH Beyond Southern California

Collins' vision for TIAH extends beyond Southern California, recognizing the widespread impact of immigration and family separation issues.

The organization is expanding its reach to other areas like Miami and New York City, partnering with individuals like Lauren Sánchez to support reunified families.

Collins emphasizes the importance of connecting people across different communities to foster a collective response to social issues.

By creating accessible pathways for participation, she aims to empower individuals to become active agents of change and contribute to a more just and equitable society.

Storytelling as a Catalyst for Change

Collins underscores the power of storytelling in driving social change and mobilizing support for critical issues.

She highlights the importance of sharing stories of families and communities impacted by immigration and family separation.

Collins' work with Equis, a Latino-focused organization, exemplifies this approach through projects like the film "Flamin' Hot," which showcases the power of cultural narratives.