Hello, my name is Leslie. I’m a board member at Espacio Migrante, a shelter and community cultural center in Tijuana that works in solidarity with migrants and refugees through education, organizing, and the arts. It’s through this work that I met Ariana Escudero—a beloved member of the Tijuana–transborder community who has given so much through her creativity, advocacy, and care for others. Now, in her time of need, we have the opportunity to give back.

Ariana has been a powerful force in Tijuana’s cultural life—through her teaching, activism, and murals that tell community stories of migration, labor, and social justice, and bring color and a sense of collective history to public spaces.

As a community muralist, Ariana’s work appears across the city—including her leadership of Voz de la Comunidad, the striking mural at Espacio Migrante that celebrates migrants and activists. The mural uplifts their voices and stands as a symbol of dignity and solidarity. Ariana has also created safe, joyful spaces for migrant children to express themselves through art.

A devoted mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend, she champions the rights of women and children. She has supported breastfeeding parents, defended mothers’ rights, and spent years nurturing the next generation of artists through youth art programs.

A Call for Support

Currently, Ariana is going through a very difficult health crisis. Earlier this year, she was diagnosed with cervical cancer. Since then, she has undergone chemotherapy and radiation—painful treatments that have taken a toll on her physically and emotionally. As a result, she is now facing severe anemia and is currently hospitalized with pneumonia.

With her permission, I’ve created this page to support her in this urgent time of need. The medical expenses have been overwhelming for her family, and your support can help Ariana get through this.

All funds raised will go directly to Ariana and her family to help cover:

- Surgery and hospitalization

- Blood transfusions

- Medical tests and lab work

- Continued cancer treatment and medications

Every Bit Helps

We are deeply grateful for any amount you are able to give. No contribution is too small, and your generosity can bring Ariana closer to healing. We want to see her well, painting, teaching, and continuing to do what she loves most—creating art that brings people together and strengthens our community.

Thank you for supporting Ariana on this journey. Please consider donating and sharing this page widely.

With love and gratitude,

Leslie

Watch the 'Voice of the Community' Mural Process

Watch: Director of Espacio Migrante Paulina Olvera Cáñez Calls for Community Support for Ariana