About Tomás Gonzalez
Tomás Gonzalez is a dedicated advocate for social justice and empowerment in Boston, with an impressive track record in political, electoral, and social campaigns spanning over 30 years. Born and raised in Boston, he is deeply rooted in the community and committed to driving positive change.
Gonzalez is a graduate of Boston College, where he developed a strong foundation for his career as an agent of change. Throughout his career, he has held multiple influential roles within Boston's local government under the administrations of both Thomas Menino and Martin Walsh. One notable position was Deputy Director for the Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Services (MONS). Additionally, Gonzalez served as an Assistant Commissioner for the City of Boston's Inspectional Services department. In all his roles, Gonzalez’s leadership and expertise were instrumental in ensuring equitable representation for Boston residents.
Outside of his roles within the local government, Gonzalez served as the political director for the Massachusetts Communities Action Network (MCAN). MCAN is the state's largest faith-based advocacy and action group, where Gonzalez contributed to advancing progressive ideals through strategic political engagement and mobilization. Gonzalez was a founding member and executive board member of Raise Up Massachusetts (RUM). RUM is the state's largest social justice table, dedicated to organizing for progressive ideals and driving systemic change. Currently, Gonzalez works as the Director of Community and Advocacy at Amplify Latinx and is the co-owner of SEED Cannabis Dispensary located in Jamaica Plain.
Gonzalez’s extensive experience, strategic leadership, and commitment to social justice have positioned him as a prominent figure in Boston's movements for change. His work in various roles within local government, political advocacy, and community entrepreneurship demonstrates his dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of Boston residents and advancing progressive ideals.
Campus Visits
Tomás Gonzalez will visit campus multiple times throughout the spring semester to share his knowledge, skills, and experiences with students interested in advocacy, politics, and entrepreneurship. While on campus, he will visit classes, host meals with students, coordinate speaker/workshop events, and meet one-on-one with students as requested. This webpage will be updated throughout the semester as new opportunities become available. If you would like to be notified when new opportunities are available, please email BerryIOP@salemstate.edu so you can be added to our email list.
- Visit 1: Thursday, January 25
- Visit 2: Monday, February 5
- Visit 3: Tuesday, February 27
- Visit 4: Thursday, March 21
- Visit 5: Tuesday, April 2
- Visit 6: Wednesday, April 17
- Visit 7: Friday, April 26
Upcoming Events
What’s the Difference Between Advocacy and Lobbying?
Tuesday, April 2 at 10:45 am-12 pm | Martin Luther King, Jr. Room, Ellison Campus Center
Join us for a comprehensive "how to" session on making change through lobbying and advocacy. This event will help you gain insights into the nuances of these crucial activities and understand the impact they can have on shaping policies, especially within the Massachusetts State House. Speakers will include: Former House of Representatives Ways & Means Committee Chairman Jeffrey Sánchez, State Representative Manny Cruz, Family Childcare Coordinator at SEIU Local 509 Alejandra Tejeda, and Director of Massachusetts Action for Justice Lew Finfer.
Latinx Leadership Lunch
Tuesday, April 2 at 12:30-2:00 pm | Charlotte Forten Legacy Room, Meier 316B
Following the previous event, we invite students, staff, and faculty to join us for a Latinx Leadership Lunch with Tomás Gonzalez and some of the panelists. Tomás will share his experiences as a Latino throughout his career, discuss his current work uplifting the Latinx community, listen to your experiences, and answer any questions. Co-Sponsored by the Latin American Student Organization, and Assistant Vice President for HSI-MSI Initiatives Elisa Castillo.
A 420 Roundtable on Starting a Cannabis Business in Massachusetts
Wednesday, April 17 at 1:30-3 pm
Join us for an insightful roundtable discussion on the intersection of cannabis and politics and the future of the cannabis industry in Massachusetts. Our distinguished speakers, CEO of Apex Noire Cannabis Tito Jackson and Co-Founder of multiple cannabis centric enterprises Dru Ledbetter, will share their expertise as entrepreneurs in this evolving industry. Learn about opportunities, challenges, and strategies for success. Don't miss this chance to gain valuable insights and network with industry leaders.
One-on-One Meetings
Tomás Gonzalez is available to meet with students one-on-one as requested during his visits. This is an opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to talk with him about his experiences, career advice, assignments, and any other topics of interest.
Fill out an interest form to meet with Tomás Gonzalez.
Learn more about the Frederick E. Berry Institute of Politics at Salem State.
| Contact |
Frederick E. Berry Institute of Politics
|
|---|