Los Angeles Teen Develops App to Support Immigrant Rights in the Community
Local Student Wins National App Challenge with Focus on Immigration Rights
Julian Miramontes, an eighth grader at El Sereno Middle School in Boyle Heights, has garnered national attention for his innovative app aimed at educating users about their immigration rights during encounters with federal agents.
At just 14 years old, Miramontes developed the “Know Your Rights” app with guidance from his STEM teacher. It provides essential information about rights related to immigration and enhances understanding through interactive quizzes aimed at users. One example question prompts users to identify which amendment protects the right to remain silent when detained, offering options such as the Fifth and Fourth Amendments.
“I wanted to create a resource that was easily accessible, so people could know their rights in this country,” Miramontes explained. “I’m helping out my community in a good way.”
His commitment to raising awareness about immigration issues was recognized when he won the national app challenge in California’s 34th Congressional District, a competition designed to inspire middle and high school students to create apps that address real-world problems. Along with the title, he received a $250 prize.
Miramontes noted the significant impact of immigration raids on his community, stating, “I saw the effects these immigration raids were having on the community.”
His parents expressed pride in his achievement, emphasizing how the initiative reflects both his technical abilities and compassion. “For us to see that he, on his own, took the initiative of choosing this topic, which is near and dear to us and our family members, it definitely creates a sense of pride and joy for us,” said Enoc Miramontes, Julian’s father.
Congressman Jimmy Gomez, representing California’s 34th Congressional District, praised the app as aligning with the competition’s objectives. “It recognizes the crisis and what the fear is in the neighborhood and says, ‘OK, what would I want people to have?’” he remarked.
As the competition winner, Miramontes will have the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., where he will meet fellow winners from across the country. Currently, the app is not publicly accessible, as it can only be shared through a direct link.
