The Aspen Institute

Miguel A. Blancarte, Jr. (Merida, Mexico) is a native of Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood, a predominantly Latino community. His drive stems from being a first generation American, where he was exposed to extreme inequalities such as discrimination and injustices. From a young age, he focused on his studies and on becoming an integral part of conversations, discussions, discoveries and solutions in his various communities. Miguel has always sought to help others and to give back, and at his core, Miguel has four pillars: education, community (volunteering and investing time), understanding (bridging divides via holistic solutions), and wellness. Upon receiving his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Brown University, and after diversifying his perspective by living, learning and thinking in Italy, Spain, Portugal and México, Miguel continues to fight for others and give back. Roles and experiences include Co-Directing the Litigation Department of an immigration law firm, launching a technology startup company focusing on wealth management, and Campaign Manager for a progressive and reformer (American politician Jesús “Chuy” García). Currently, Miguel is writing a novel based on a weight-loss journey, where in eight months, on his own, he was able to lose 180lb – dropping to 164lbs. Never having known “normal” weight, Miguel turned himself into an athlete (currently a member of Team USA and an athlete for Nathan Sports), and he is recognized as a runner and triathlete by Runner’s World Magazine, Competitor Magazine, Chicago Athlete Magazine, and the Chicago Area Runners Association. Participated in Aspen Ideas Festival.