David Solano ’25 Addresses Attendees at Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice

Senior David Solano ’25 addressed attendees at the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice in Washington, D.C., last week. Solano was among the 25 Regians who traveled to Washington for the event, which is sponsored by the Ignatian Solidarity Network and promotes justice initiatives while connecting tens of thousands of Jesuit organization members.

The IFTJ was first held in 1997 to honor six Jesuit priests who were killed by military forces in El Salvador in 1989. The event continues the work of these martyrs, giving those gathered an opportunity to learn, reflect, pray, and advocate for justice.

This year's gathering featured speeches from prominent voices in the Jesuit community as well as breakout sessions focusing on economic, environmental, and migration justice. Solano delivered a speech on the mainstage addressing indigenous discrimination in Mexico and New York City.

Solano, the son of parents who immigrated from Mexico, told the story of his family's perseverance as they moved around the country before settling in New York. "You can sow action for justice in each of your own communities," said Solano. "Where can you use your privilege to build a more equitable world? Within your homes, which voices are amplified? How can you thread steadfast hope amidst the precarious times we live in today? Whilst prejudice builds walls, empathy bridges hearts."

Throughout the weekend, IFTJ attendees had the opportunity to participate in conversations in breakout groups. During one of these sessions, Ryan Levens ’26 led a discussion on AI and justice in which the group focused on how we can ensure the equitable application of innovative technology.