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Gilberto Manzanarez

Gilberto Manzanarez Profile Photo

Gilberto Manzanarez is a lifelong Calexico, California resident, raised in the border community after being born in Mexicali and a graduate of Imperial Valley College with a degree in social science who has worked as a community advocate and mental health professional focused on elevating working-class voices.

He served on the Calexico City Council as a young progressive leader campaigning for social and economic justice.

Jan. 9, 2026

S5E1: Standing Up to Tech Giants: Desert Locals vs. California’s Largest Data Center

Joined by guest Gilberto Manzanarez from Valle Imperial Resiste, Chris explores the community's opposition to an AI data center due to potential environmental impacts, including noise pollution and increased water usage. Despite promises of economic growth, residents face uncertainty regarding prop…