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Frederick E. Berry Institute of Politics
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About Tomás Gonzalez
Tomás Gonzalez is a dedicated advocate for social justice and empowerment in Boston, with an impressive track record in political, electoral, and social campaigns spanning over 30 years. Born and raised in Boston, he is deeply rooted in the community and committed to driving positive change.
Gonzalez is a graduate of Boston College, where he developed a strong foundation for his career as an agent of change. Throughout his career, he has held multiple influential roles within Boston's local government under the administrations of both Thomas Menino and Martin Walsh. One notable position was Deputy Director for the Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Services (MONS). Additionally, Gonzalez served as an Assistant Commissioner for the City of Boston's Inspectional Services department. In all his roles, Gonzalez’s leadership and expertise were instrumental in ensuring equitable representation for Boston residents.
Outside of his roles within the local government, Gonzalez served as the political director for the Massachusetts Communities Action Network (MCAN). MCAN is the state's largest faith-based advocacy and action group, where Gonzalez contributed to advancing progressive ideals through strategic political engagement and mobilization. Gonzalez was a founding member and executive board member of Raise Up Massachusetts (RUM). RUM is the state's largest social justice table, dedicated to organizing for progressive ideals and driving systemic change. Currently, Gonzalez works as the Director of Community & Advocacy at Amplify Latinx and is the co-owner of SEED Cannabis Dispensary located in Jamaica Plain.
Gonzalez’s extensive experience, strategic leadership, and commitment to social justice have positioned him as a prominent figure in Boston's movements for change. His work in various roles within local government, political advocacy, and community entrepreneurship demonstrates his dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of Boston residents and advancing progressive ideals.
Berry IOP Fellowship | Spring 2024
Tomás Gonzalez visited campus multiple times throughout the semester to share his knowledge, skills, and experiences with students interested in advocacy, politics, and entrepreneurship. While on campus, he visited classes, facilitated meals with students, coordinated speaker/workshop events, and hosted one-on-one mentor meetings with students. Below are some highlights from his fellowship.
- Latinos in Massachusetts Electoral Politics featuring Cesar Ruiz, Jr.
- The Two E’s: Navigating the Fork in the Road featuring State Representative Andy X. Vargas, Boston At-Large City Councilor Julia Mejia, and political operative Calvin Feliciano
- What’s the Difference Between Advocacy and Lobbying? featuring Jeffrey Sánchez, Former House of Representatives Ways & Means Committee Chair; Manny Cruz, State Representative; Alejandra Tejeda, Family Childcare Coordinator at SEIU Local 509; and Lew Finfer, Director of Massachusetts Action for Justice
- Politics & Entrepreneurship: The Cannabis Industry in Massachusetts featuring Tito Jackson
- Latinx Leadership Lunch with the Latin American Student Organization
- Meetings with our Vote Ambassadors, Student Government, and Running for Office Workshop participants
Disclaimer: This information is accurate for the time period that this Fellow was affiliated with the Berry Institute of Politics.
Learn more about the Frederick E. Berry Institute of Politics at Salem State University.