Tialli (Hello),

My name is Leonel Alvarez Ceja; I am an Indigenous Chicano (Xicanx) Philosopher. I am a first-generation student, having been the first in my family to attend middle and high school and acquire literacy skills. At present, I find myself in the initial stages of pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of California Irvine, commencing in the Fall of 2023; I am also one of the 2023 NAAPE Kabango Fellows. My primary research interests are in Social Ontology, Latinx, Chicanx, Mexican, Moral, Political, and Indigenous Mesoamerican Philosophy. My research currently focuses on constructing a comprehensive philosophical framework explaining the totality of the Xicanx (Chicanx) identity. That is, my primary aim is to analyze and give an account of the philosophical dimensions surrounding the origins, nature, and fate of Xicanx (Chicanx) identity.

Presently, I serve as a researcher to Calvin Normore at UCLA, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy. Prior to that, I held a similar position under Katrina Elliott. Additionally, I am a co-founder and signatory of the MAP Chapter at UCLA.

My ancestors are the indigenous communities (Purépecha and Azteca) that inhabited the Mexican highlands, a legacy that I hold in the utmost regard and reverence, paying homage to both my ancestors and the present-day elders. I am originally from Aztlan, and my family currently resides in the rural villages of Paredones and Potrerillos (near the Purepecha village of Tzitzio), located in the state of Michoacan, Mexico. Formal education and upward mobility were not easily attainable tasks for many people from these villages. Nevertheless, even amidst these challenges, one never forgets the community that imparted values that formal education alone cannot teach. Therefore, I am deeply grateful for their teachings and humbled to be their student.

As the lyrics of Gerardo Reyes beautifully express:

"No fui a la escuela Yo aprendí de grande Las letras no entran cuando se tiene hambre Y no hay quien te dé la mano si eres pobre Por eso vuelvo a este pueblo viejo Donde la vida me trató tan mal Y esta es mi raza Que por nada dejo Aunque volviera yo a sufrir igual." translated as "I didn't go to school; I learned as an adult. Words aren’t learned when you're hungry, and there's no one to lend a hand if you're poor. That's why I return to this old village where life treated me so badly, for these are my people that I'll never leave, even if I were to suffer in the same way again."

My overarching objective is to utilize my philosophical research toward the preservation, inquiry, and advancement of the knowledge and wisdom of my people while contributing to the present-day pursuit of social justice, equity, and inclusivity. Therefore, if you identify as a BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and Person of Color) or LGBTQIA+ person and have any questions or require advice regarding academic philosophy, please don't hesitate to contact me. I am at your service and more than willing to help.

Tlazocamati! (Grateful for y’all)

In Lak’ech Ala K’in (You are another me)