Joseph "Louis" Ayala
Senior Ground Technician, BUSD, 2000-Present
President, CSEA Chapter 674

Joseph “Louis” Ayala migrated from Sinaloa, Mexico as a child with his family. A ‘Dreamer’ in every sense of the word, Louis grew up in Burbank and just like our town, he is committed to “people, pride, and progress.” The first Latino president of the California School Employees Association (CSEA), Chapter 674, he is the Senior Ground Technician for Burbank Unified School District and is loved and respected by his coworkers, his union and the school community he serves.

Q & A with Louis Ayala:

Q:  What do you remember most about your time growing up in Burbank?

A:  First and foremost, I thank God for bringing me this far.  I am a proud immigrant and a product of BUSD.  Just like so many of our kids today, I went to Disney Elementary, Jordan Middle School and John Burroughs High School.  I have vivid memories of playing on the Disney playground and of the Jordan Blue and Gold competitions.  And I especially cherish my time playing baseball at Burroughs when I would call signs to the pitcher from behind home palte while staring down Burbank players as they tried to steal second base.  My time at Burroughs provided me the opportunity to work for the City of Burbank.  I was with the City for 12 years before returning to the same place that was such a significant part of my life - the school district.

I had a fun and rich childhood here. It was wonderful growing up in such an involved and caring community.

Q:  You’re the first Latino president of your union in Burbank. How’s that feel? What motivated you to go out for the position?

A:  I am humbled to represent a community that's been underserved for so many years.  I enjoy being the voice for the voiceless.  When my community asks what motivated me to run for president of the union, my answer is always the same: I did it for you!

My personal experiences with oppression and discrimination motivates me to do whatever I can to ensure minority employees are treated fairly and equitably.  I realized early on that I could sit back and live my life complaining about injustice - or I could do something.  I decided to turn a negaive into a positive and chose to represent staff and fight for our rights.

Q:  What does diversity, equity and inclusion look like to you, today and in the future?

A:  Being the first Latino president of the union in Burbank provides me the opportunity to fight for inclusion.  My vision for today and tomorrow is steeped in fairness and equality.  BUSD boldly owrks to ensure all staff feels valued and included, the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee is a strong example of that.  And for our part, I proudly represent our classified, CSEA membership as we also work to make sure diveristy and inclusion exists in our working environment for all.

I am grateful to be named a BUSD Diversity Champion of the Month.

Thank you.