The past 18 months have been heart-breaking. On the Central Coast, more than 2,000 people have been detained by ICE and across the nation, 10,0000 people were detained in one week in late June. Lorenzo Salgado Araujo and Joan Sebastian Guerrero were killed by ICE agents in July, sparking protests and resistance. In these times it is difficult to remain hopeful, as things may get worse before they get better. That said, Chicanx/Latinx history shows us that parents, grandparents, elders, children, and community members will respond with love, resiliency, and joy. As the incoming Chair of this historic department, I am grateful to be working with colleagues who are committed to social change and to collaborate with graduate and undergraduate students, along with incredible staff members, who are focused on making a tangible, real difference in the lives of immigrants, working-class folks, and everyone seeking justice and dignity.