Andrés Carrera is a first-generation American, the son of immigrants, and a proud gay man. He grew up in a family that survived on grit, hustle, and community. Starting at just age 15, he worked the fryer at Taco Bell and later the register at Long John Silver’s where he was the only person to speak both English and Spanish; helping to build connection and understanding even there.

After college, he spent four years teaching English in China—broadening his perspective and deepening his belief in the American promise.