José Jiménez, known as "Cha Cha”, was a Puerto Rican-American activist who transformed the Young Lords, originally a street gang in Chicago, into an organization dedicated to civil and human rights. Born in Caguas, Puerto Rico, in 1948, Jiménez moved to the U.S. as a baby, living initially in Boston and then in Chicago. Beginning in 1968, after a transformative experience in prison, he decided to redirect his life and lead the Young Lords in defense of the Latino and Puerto Rican communities.

Under his leadership, the Young Lords went on to address issues such as gentrification, displacement of poor residents, police brutality, and basic health, education, and welfare rights. Inspired by the Black Panther Party, they created community programs such as free breakfasts, health clinics, and childcare services, as well as mobilized against urban renewal policies that harmed Latino neighborhoods. They also performed symbolic actions, such as the occupation of McCormick Theological Seminary, to demand resources for the benefit of the community.

With the motto "Tengo Puerto Rico en mi Corazón", the Young Lords also aligned themselves with Black Power movements, integrating the Rainbow Coalition, and supported the struggle for Puerto Rico's independence. In addition, they have established chapters in other U.S. cities, such as New York and Philadelphia, broadening their reach and impact.

The trajectory of Jiménez and the Young Lords reflects the struggle for social justice, self-determination, and fundamental rights for marginalized communities in the U.S. He passed away in January 2025, leaving a remarkable legacy in the history of Latino organization and activism in the United States.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jos%C3%A9_Jim%C3%A9nez_(activist)