J. Roman Perez Varela was born and raised in the city of Salinas, California, better known as the "Salad Bowl of the World." As a first-generation Mexican American and a migrant student, he realized early in his childhood that he had 2 choices in life: either to work hard in school or work hard picking crops. Like most of his siblings, he did both in order to survive, and it allowed him to better understand the important role his father, a campesino, and his mother played in this country. His work ethic reflects his upbringing, and he is thankful that working under the sun and rain made him understand what his parents had to experience to provide a better life for him, his siblings, and extended family. Presently, Roman continues to live in Salinas with his wife and 3 children. As a Program Director at a Transitional Residence Program, he assists many campesinos struggling with homelessness. Allowing him to assist others, as others assisted his family when they initially arrived in this country. Roman hopes one day his children can understand the sacrifices many have experienced in order for them to live the life they live.
Jose Ramirez is an artist. In the past 30 years, he has illustrated children's books, painted murals and completed numerous commissions. Ramirez is also an educator and has taught in the LAUSD for over 30 years. He is currently a teacher at Esperanza Elementary, located in the Pico-Union neighborhood of Los Angeles. He received a BFA (1990) and an MFA (1993) in art from UC Berkeley. In 1995, he received a California Teaching Credential from CSULA. When Jose is not creating, he enjoys gardening, cooking, and playing music. He is a proud father of 3 daughters: Tonantzin, Luna, and Sol. For more info, visit Jose at www.ramirezart.com or on Instagram @joseramirezart.
