Jorge De La Cruz is the Director of External and Governmental Affairs at First 5 California, where he leads statewide policy, communications, advocacy, and public engagement efforts to advance the well-being of California’s youngest children and their families.
A former DACA recipient, Jorge became the first DACA recipient appointed by a California governor following the passage of the Representing All Californians Act (SB 225). Before joining First 5 California, he served as Assistant Deputy Director of Public Affairs and Communications at the California State Lottery.
At First 5 California, Jorge has helped advance legislation supporting maternal health, child care access, and family well-being. He also led the Children FIRST initiative, a $10 million statewide effort supporting immigrant and mixed-status families across California. Through strategic leadership, coalition-building, and bilingual communication, Jorge continues to champion equitable policies that strengthen children, families, and communities.