By Luis Alejandro Molina
FROM: The Board of Directors and Leadership of the Puerto Rican Cultural Center (PRCC), and the National Boricua Human Rights Network (NBHRN)
It is with deep emotion, profound respect, and unwavering solidarity that we address our community and the broader Puerto Rican diaspora regarding our beloved compañera and sister in struggle, Michelle Morales.
Michelle’s life and leadership have been inextricably bound to the heartbeat of our collective liberation movements for decades. A steadfast pillar of the National Boricua Human Rights Network (NBHRN) and an indispensable force across Chicago’s educational and activist landscape, Michelle’s political and moral compass was forged in the fires of our most defining modern struggles. From the monumental mobilization that successfully halted the U.S. Navy’s bombing of Vieques, to the relentless, generation-spanning campaigns to free Puerto Rican political prisoners, to the fierce grassroots fights against gentrification, police brutality and torture in Chicago, Michelle has always been on the front lines.
Her visionary leadership has extended far beyond political organizing. Michelle has dedicated her professional and personal life to emancipatory education and institutional justice, lending her brilliance and tireless energy to vital organizations and institutions including:
- The Committee to Free José Solís
- The Alternative Schools Network (where she has served as Associate Director, overseeing vital educational support for community-based alternative high schools)
- The National Boricua Human Rights Network (NBHRN)
- Mikva Network
- Malcolm X Community College
- The Woods Fund
Whether she was managing organizational finances, authoring crucial grant proposals, coordinating national solidarity networks, or mentoring the next generation of youth and community leaders, Michelle has always worked tirelessly behind the scenes and on the streets without ever seeking personal acclaim.
Today, Compañera Michelle Morales faces her most challenging battle yet as she fights cancer and other underlying health complications. Just as she has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with our community through every trial, every campaign, and every triumph, it is now our profound duty and privilege to stand with her.
We are calling upon the Puerto Rican diaspora, our partner organizations, comrades, friends, and all those whose lives have been touched by Michelle’s immense contributions to surround her with love, strength, and healing energy. Immerse her in a sea of our best wishes, collective prayers, and messages of deep gratitude.
Compañera Michelle: your community remembers, honors, and carries you in our hearts. ¡Estamos contigo!
A luta continua/Hasta la Victoria Siempre
Or as our beloved Oscar always reminded us: “Las cosas no se dicen, las cosas se hacen y para los que luchan, la victoria es la recompensa.”
Michelle, you truly have lived this motto.
Please send expressions of solidarity and best wishes to:
