From the March to the Heart — Manolo Betancur’s speech at the Immigrant Rights March in Central Avenue, Charlotte NC. May 3, 2025.
By Manolo Betancur
We are Immigrants and much more.
We are immigrants—workers, builders, and dreamers. 🇺🇸 America has a roof because of us. We are immigrants—farmers, bakers, and chefs. America has food because of us. We are immigrants —nurses and doctors. Healers of wounds seen and unseen. America has health because of us. We are immigrants—soldiers and officers—guardians of peace and order. And we are so much more.
And we are so much more.
We are poets. We Are Local Artists. We are teachers. We are parents. We are possibilities. When I say “we are,” I mean all of us, because behind every hero stands a mother, a brother, a neighborhood, a community gathered in love and sacrifice.
This community! My Community! Our Community!
We are immigrants. We do not speak the language of surrender. We are here. And we will stay. We are immigrants. We will fight for your flag, because it is my flag as well. This is my kids’ land. The land of the brave and home of the free.
Please, if you care about us, start acting from your heart. Let us know that we are welcome in your arms.
And yes, we can cry today.
“But our souls will always fly as Superman does. He is an immigrant like us. He is a hero like us. He is Hope, like us. He is American like us. We are important in this nation, too.”
So, Many good things are made in America By immigrant hands, and that’s the real power that we have.
So, let’s always keep our heads up! We are immigrants, and much more! Than just That.
In Memory of Don Orlando Barreto 🙏🏻
Special thanks to Hector Vaca Cruz Carolina Migrant Network
By Manolo Betancur
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About Manolo Betancur
Entrepreneur | Social Activist | Small Business Advocate
Manolo Betancur is a Colombian-born entrepreneur, philanthropist, and social activist who has dedicated his life to uplifting communities through business, advocacy, and humanitarian efforts. Now a proud American citizen—thanks to a landmark decision by a U.S. judge—he exemplifies the resilience and contributions of immigrants in the United States. With a background as an engineer, former officer in the Colombian Navy, and accomplished martial art (Second Dan in Karate- fourth Dan in Taekwondo), Manolo transitioned into entrepreneurship 28 years ago and has since become a leading voice for small businesses and
immigrant entrepreneurs. He holds a degree in Modern Languages from King University in Tennessee and completed a business entrepreneurship program at Stanford University in California. As the CEO and founder of Manolo’s Bakery, a purpose-driven business in Charlotte, NC, Manolo leads with a mission that extends beyond baking. His bakery regularly contributes to more than 26 local nonprofits, supporting community-driven initiatives. One time his bakery efforts literally saved a life. In 2021, He and Manolo’s Bakery was honored with the World Bread Hero USA Award 2021 for its dedication to social impact by IBIE International Baking Industry Exposition.
