Ezequiel Gonzalez

At just 15 years old, Ezequiel Gonzalez was detained and sentenced to 23 years in a U.S. state prison. After serving 12 years, his sentence was commuted, and he was deported back to his native Mexico. Rather than letting his past define him, Ezequiel chose to channel his experiences into positive action.​

Upon his return, he dedicated himself to his community by teaching free art classes at a local community center. Recognizing the transformative power of art, he sought to provide others with the tools to express themselves and heal. Simultaneously, he embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, starting his own Mexican food business, aiming to share his culture and flavors with a broader audience.​

Ezequiel's passion for the arts didn't stop there. Collaborating with a group of women, he founded "Comedian Del Arte Tecate," a theater company inspired by The Actors' Gang Prison Project. Through this initiative, he offers a platform for storytelling, expression, and community engagement, further solidifying his commitment to positive change.​

Ezequiel's journey from incarceration to community leader serves as a testament to the human capacity for growth, redemption, and impact. His story inspires others to believe in second chances and the power of art and community in transforming lives.