Life & Work with Ruben Valencia

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ruben Valencia. 

Hi Ruben, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
As a life-long public servant working in law enforcement, I saw the need from my immediate neighborhood because of the lack of diversity. Being a father of girls, I’ve always preached to them that they can do anything in this world regardless of the gender, sexual preference, cultural background, etc. but I was conflicted in my teaching because in some areas in society they don’t see people like them in places of power. I’m a firm believer in if you can’t see it, you cannot be it. 

Seeing this in the city I live in and which I love, that’s what sparked my journey to run for public office. My motto has always been, “Persistence beats resistance”. I say that because it took three attempts for me to break in into the racially polarized arena. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It has been an uphill battle due in part to career politicians that have corporate sponsors that dump hundreds of thousands of dollars into their account. These seasoned veterans, that have been in office for several decades each don’t want to lose their grip. 

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a retired deputy sheriff with the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department and currently, I’m a city council member in the City of Ontario. 

I specialize in community outreach and being a conduit of my constituents in breaking the stigma of US vs. Them mentality. I’m passionate for our generation and knowing that we must produce and mentor our next generation of leaders. 

I’m most of proud of bringing the youth activities league, a city-based non-profit built to create a no-cost sports and mentorship program for at-risk youth. Hearing the concerns and issues of my constituents and learning that they were soon solved always brings me pleasure because in order to create change we must unite in order to help grow our city we all love. 

Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memory was playing organized sports at our local park because back then it felt like a safe environment. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @valencia4ontario
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/votevalenciaforontario