Josely Castro is a lifelong advocate for equal rights and representation in local, state, and national matters impacting immigrants, children, and underrepresented communities. Her journey began as a member of the League of Women Voters, where she focused on increasing Latino voter registration in her hometown of Plainfield, New Jersey. Driven by a passion for civic engagement, Josely dedicated herself to educating her community about the importance of local politics and the power of the vote.
In 2020, Josely made history as the first Latina elected to the Plainfield Board of Education—an achievement that brought meaningful representation to a district where over 80% of the student body is Latino. Her presence on the board ensured that students and families had an advocate who understood their lived experiences.
Josely also served as a board member for Queen City Promise, a nonprofit organization that awards scholarships to Plainfield graduates, furthering her commitment to educational equity. Her unwavering dedication to the advancement of communities of color has led her to the Latino Action Network, where she continues to champion justice, opportunity, and empowerment.