Evaristo Salas: A Sunnyside School Board Run – Fueled by Justice and Hope

In a world where cynicism often overshadows hope, the story of Evaristo Salas reminds us that resilience, community, and purpose can transform even the darkest of pasts into a beacon for others.

At just 15 years old, Evaristo was wrongfully convicted for a crime he did not commit—set up by a Sunnyside police officer and silenced by a broken system. He would go on to spend 27 years of his life behind bars. But in August of 2023, the truth emerged. Justice prevailed. Evaristo walked free—not bitter, not broken, but determined.

Now, this once-incarcerated teenager turned justice advocate is running for Sunnyside School Board, District 3. His campaign is not fueled by politics as usual, but by an unwavering commitment to ensure that no child in our district is forgotten, voiceless, or left behind.

“I stand before you today not just as a candidate for the Sunnyside School Board,” Evaristo recently wrote, “but as a testament to the power of perseverance, justice, and community… I want to ensure every child in our district has access to education, opportunity, and a future free from the barriers of injustice.”

His platform centers on:

• Equity in education — so that every student, regardless of background or ZIP code, receives the resources they need to succeed.
• Support for educators — recognizing that our teachers are the bedrock of future generations.
• Community involvement — because our schools thrive when parents, students, and teachers have a real voice in decision-making.

A Clear Contrast in Values

Evaristo’s opponent in the race, Laura Galvan, is the wife of City Councilman Jorge Galvan—a man whose own words betray a disturbing view of public education. In a now-public Facebook post dated April 11, Jorge Galvan stated:

“My wife and I have been discussing removing our oldest from the public educational system (AKA zombie producing factories).”

This couple is trying to influence our public schools. A man who refers to our classrooms—where dedicated teachers work tirelessly to lift children up—as “zombie producing factories.” It’s a slap in the face to every teacher, parent, and student in Sunnyside. Now, his wife wants to have a spot on the school board?

Laura Galvan, while presenting herself as a former paraeducator and school volunteer, offers a platform that appears more about preserving power than serving people.

A Campaign Rooted in Real-Life Experience

Evaristo’s bid isn’t polished by consultants or driven by politics, it’s powered by purpose. He has spent the past year mentoring youth, speaking out for justice, and working directly with families who often feel left out of the system. His campaign slogan isn’t just a tagline—it’s a truth lived out every day:

“A Voice for Justice. A Champion for Our Kids.”

In a community as diverse and vibrant as Sunnyside, we don’t need more of the same. We don’t need school board members who see our public schools as broken factories or who are more loyal to council power plays than to children.

We need someone who knows what it’s like to be underestimated, misunderstood, and overlooked—and who’s willing to fight so that no child experiences that again.

We need Evaristo Salas, Jr.

This November, voters will face a defining choice. Will we continue down the same path of political favoritism and empty promises? Or will we rise to support a man whose life is a testament to redemption, hope, and the belief that every child deserves a fair shot?

Let’s build a school system rooted in justice, equity, and opportunity—for all.

Vote Evaristo Salas, Jr. for Sunnyside School Board, District 3.