“Vivid, urgent, original, Randy Jurado Ertll’s story compels us to grapple with some of the most urgent issues of our times.”
— Matt Rothschild, Editor of The Progressive Magazine
“A heart-felt and heart-warming story .while it is one man’s story, it is also the story of so many who build new lives with perseverance, determination, and compassion.”
— Henrik Rehbinder, Editorial Page Editor of La Opinion
“This is a story that young people everywhere should read as it demonstrates how much every one of them could contribute to a better future for themselves and their communities.”
—Margaret E. Crahan, Director, Kozmetsky Center, Distinguished Professor at St. Edward’s University.
“The book speaks to a hope for a different world and finds even in the most dispiriting of experiences the seeds of change and social justice. This should be required reading.”
—Warren Montag, chair of the English and Comparative Literary Studies Department at Occidental College.
“An inspiration and testament to the power of an individual to overcome obstacles and make a difference.”
—Rampa R. Hormel, environmentalist and President of Enlyst Fund.
“Through his first person narration, Jurado Ertll forges meaning and identity from his struggle as an immigrant child, growing up in the sometimes violent, fragmented streets and neighborhoods located on the “other side” of Los Angeles. Jurado Ertll’s story gives voice and inspiration to the struggle of thousands of immigrant families across the country living in Urban America. He tells the story of a courageous life, growing up against all odds, in neighborhoods plagued by gang violence. The rise of Randy Jurado Ertll as an important community leader is a remarkable journey. As an African-American, I especially applaud his commitment to social justice and the need to build meaningful multicultural coalitions on the ground level.”
—Luke E. Willams, Jr., USC alum and obtained law degree from University of Pennsylvania and served as executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA).
““Randy Jurado Ertll is one of the few friends I have; very honest, he knows where he is from and where he is now; he works hard for all people, it does not matter what country, color, religious or political affiliation they are from. That is very interesting to me, to know that there is a guy like him, especially in these difficult economic times, where many people change their principles and values for money and power.”
—Mauricio Cienfuegos, retired professional soccer player for the Los Angeles Galaxy team (Major League Soccer).
Randy Jurado Ertll is the executive director of El Centro de Accion Social in Pasadena, CA.
Purchase Hope in Times of Darkness from Amazon today.
