My Story
Lucia Allain is an experienced advocate and organizer whose work is rooted in her personal journey as a former undocumented immigrant. For over a decade, she has led efforts to advance immigrant rights and build power within underrepresented communities.
Originally from Peru, Lucia moved to the U.S. at age 11. Her lived experiences drive her commitment to centering voices often left out of immigration narratives. Her leadership has been nationally recognized, including being named one of Glamour Magazine’s "Women of the Year" in 2019.
Lucia has served as Communications Manager for RAICES (Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services), a nonprofit based in San Antonio that provides legal aid and advocacy to immigrants navigating detention and the U.S. immigration system.
In 2019, Lucia focused on supporting children separated from their families by U.S. immigration policies. She provided direct support from engaging young children through phone-based play to mentoring teens demonstrating her deep commitment to care, connection, and emotional healing. In that year, she produced El Paso Firme: A Call to Action Against White Supremacy, a border concert held in response to the El Paso Walmart mass shooting. The event brought together over 7,000 people in a powerful show of solidarity, using music to foster healing and collective action
In March 2023, Lucia launched P.U.S.H. (Pathway to Unleashing Skills and Horizons), a mentorship program inspired by her own experiences in working retail jobs. Designed to support workers with limited access to opportunity, P.U.S.H. equips participants with tools, guidance, and mentorship to pursue careers aligned with their passions and economic goals. Lucia’s journey from undocumented worker to advocate, drives her commitment to creating pathways for others.
In August 2024, Lucia joined The Music Center in Los Angeles as a Project Manager, where she leverages her background in community organizing and immigrant advocacy to strengthen engagement with Northeast L.A. communities. Her work includes expanding access to arts programming for immigrant and refugee families such as coordinating transportation through a Metrolink partnership and integrating essential community resources to ensure cultural spaces are truly inclusive and supportive.
Lucia has fostered meaningful community connections through inclusive cultural programming. She organized a holiday dinner for 60 community members, creating a joyful space of belonging, and led efforts to bring immigrant and refugee families to the Music Center’s Tree Lighting and Grand Holiday Celebration, which broadcasted nationwide on PBS. Through community gatherings and outreach, she continues to ensure families feel welcomed, informed, and empowered to take part in the cultural life of Los Angeles.