Why Your Liberation Is Bound with Mine with Fernando Deveras

Update: 2025-06-18

Description

In this episode, I speak with Fernando Deveras, an educator, community organiser, and social media activist. Fernando shares his personal story, from his family's immigrant roots to becoming a middle school teacher and using his platform to educate on complex social issues.

We delve into the importance of understanding history, the lonely yet vital work of fighting for justice, and the concept of "revolutionary optimism". Fernando discusses the power of community, how to organise effectively, and the role of education as a tool for either conformity or freedom.

This is a powerful conversation about finding our shared humanity and taking collective responsibility in a world that profits from our division.

Key Takeaways

The fight for justice is often not a popular movement in its own time; it is carried by the love and passion of a few who persist despite a lack of widespread support.
A true understanding of interconnectedness means recognising that our comforts and privileges can come at the expense of others' suffering, which creates a moral responsibility to act.
"Revolutionary optimism" is the idea that we can draw strength and hope from the legacy of past generations who fought against and overcame immense struggles, reminding us that change is possible even if we do not see it in our lifetime.
Effective community organising is built on finding common goals and connecting on a human level through shared joy, not just shared problems. It’s about reclaiming our natural, collective way of being.
Education is never neutral. It can either be an instrument for conformity, reinforcing the dominant worldview, or a tool for freedom that encourages critical thinking and the imagination of a different world.

Episode Highlights

03:23 : Fernando talks about his background, from his family's roots in Mexico to his work as a middle school teacher and community organiser in Santa Ana, California.
11:53 : Fernando unpacks the meaning behind a James Baldwin quote about love and freedom, and what it says about the nature of social justice work.
20:30 : In response to a student's question, Fernando explains why he speaks out on issues that do not directly affect him, highlighting the concepts of interconnectedness and collective liberation.
30:20 : Fernando explains the concept of "revolutionary optimism" as a way to find hope and endurance by looking at the legacy of historical struggles for justice.
42:30 : We discuss the Malcolm X quote, "We aren't outnumbered, we are just out organized," and Fernando shares his experience on how we can build community and organise effectively.

About the Guest