A longtime advocate for immigrant, Latinx, and LGBTQ+ communities, Arely Westley works with numerous organizations in New Orleans to uplift LGBTQ+ youth, stop abuses in ICE detention facilities, and expand access to immigrant support services. Recognized for her tireless efforts to combat injustice, Westley joins a distinguished group of more than 50 defenders and organizations honored throughout the Award’s history.

Westley, who identifies as a trans-Latinx woman, moved to Louisiana from Honduras at a young age. She currently serves as the Campaign Director at BreakOUT!, an organization that seeks to empower Black and Latinx transgender and gender non-conforming youth through leadership development programs. She is also a vital member of the Southeast Dignity Not Detention Coalition (SDND), a group of nonprofits and grassroots organizations committed to advancing immigrants’ rights through legal and community support services.

I am a senior at New Harmony High School in New Orleans. I have been on the dance team here for the past three years as well as being an ambassador last year. This summer I participated in the Youth Force Internship program. I completed 60+ hours of training in business skills to prepare for the workforce. I was placed at University Medical Center where I volunteered 105+ hours in the Women’s Health Clinic. That experience has made me sure I want to go into the medical field. I want to study nursing after highschool because it is a job in which I can help people and give back. During my internship I  learned that there is an immense need for healthcare workers that speak Spanish. I want to contribute to providing better care for everyone.