Rene Rivas came to the United States over 20 years ago from El Salvador in search of liberty, freedom, equality and safety.
Rivas was in El Salvador while it was engulfed in a civil war. Rivas was on the committee of a labor union, which made Rivas a prime target for the Salvadorian Army.
Rivas was tortured for two weeks by the Salvadorian army. Luckily, Riva’s family brought his capture to the attention of the international Red Cross and the Salvadorian Commission of Human Rights. Rivas was released and decided to move to the United States.
The dangerous journey to America took a month as Rivas jumped cargo trains through Mexico. Many Salvadorians die or are injured on this journey, but Rivas survived.
Rivas married in America, had two kids, and became very involved in his church. He had odd jobs in construction but the benefits weren’t good.
In 1997, Rivas was given the opportunity to work as a custodian at De Anza College. Rivas applied during the transition and was able to secure a position.
“I feel privileged to work for a place that values its employees, treats them fairly and provides benefits. I fought for this in my homeland but was persecuted for it.”
Rivas is assigned to the Child Development Center and the employees love having him there.
“We appreciate all of Rivas’ efforts to keep [the] CDC sparkling and a place where children and adults feel comfortable and welcomed. It’s obvious he takes pride in our center”.
“The teachers and students always treat me with respect and make me feel like an equal it inspires me to do my best.”
Rivas says that not everyone on campus is friendly and respectful.
“Sometimes people think you are ignorant because you’re the janitor.” Once he was checking his email and heard someone say they were surprised that the janitor knew how to work a computer.
Not only does Rivas love using computers but he is fascinated by new technology. He is currently discovering the ins and outs of his new digital camera with his daughter. As a father, Rivas wants a good education for his children so they can become independent happy adults.
Rivas has found peace in God and tries not to think too much about the torture he endured in El Salvador. He once wanted to be a priest, but now finds his own personal happiness in the love he has for God, his family and his job.