Activist and Hip Hop Artist Jag Arreola Inspires RCC Ethnic Studies Class with a Message of Resistance and Self-Determination

In a packed classroom at Riverside City College, the energy was electric as Jag Arreola, hip hop artist, activist, and former middle school history teacher, stepped into Ethnic Studies instructor Citlalli Anahuac’s class. What followed was more than a lecture—it was a journey into the heart of resilience, self-determination, and cultural reclamation.

Arreola, known for his revolutionary lyrics and advocacy for marginalized communities, shared his deeply personal journey. He spoke about his time as a middle school history teacher, community organizing, rallying, marching, and performing anonymously, to shield his identity behind a mask to keep his career inside the classroom separate from his artistic endeavors. Everything changed when he was arrested for his activism. 

During his arrest, authorities unmasked him, revealing his identity to the public. What could have been a moment of defeat became a turning point for Arreola. “The mask might have come off, but my identity grew stronger,” he said. “Like a jaguar in the Mesoamerican jungles, I adapted and became more passionate about my purpose.” This experience fueled his passion for continuing to support anti-colonial initiatives using music as his vehicle, pushing him to embrace his role as a community leader and supporter of global struggles against imperialism.

Hip-Hop as Resistance

Arreola’s music serves as a powerful platform for social change, blending activism and art to confront themes of colonialism, mass incarceration, deportations, genocide, and cultural erasure. His lyrics celebrate sobriety, resilience, and the fight for sovereignty, while rejecting societal norms that perpetuate oppression.

“I want my music to inspire people to think, to act, and to reclaim their power,” he said. One of his most popular tracks, 9:09, has resonated with audiences who find strength in its empowering message. Arreola shared how his commitment to sobriety has inspired countless others, including those incarcerated, who have reached out to thank him for his influence.

You can listen to Jag’s music via Spotify, YouTube, or  Apple Music. He not only performs solo but also collaborates with music partner Native Threat as part of the duo known as Kozmik Force, continuing their activism together. Kozmik Force’s music can also be found on similar platforms. 

Connecting Local and Global Struggles

Arreola’s activism extends beyond his lyrics. Following his acquittal of all charges related to his arrest, he is committed to helping those wrongfully arrested navigate their way to freedom. His work connects local struggles to global movements, from Palestine to the Philippines, emphasizing the interconnectedness of resistance efforts worldwide.

“Activism is service to the people,” Arreola told students. He is looking to collaborate with organizations like Anakbayan Inland Empire and supports efforts ranging from earthquake relief in the Philippines to sovereignty movements across Turtle Island 

(the Americas.)

Decolonialism on Micro and Macro Levels

A key takeaway from Arreola’s talk was the concept of micro and macro decolonialism. He encouraged students to recognize that even small acts of resistance contribute to the bigger picture. “It’s about reclaiming your story and challenging systems of oppression in your daily life,” he said. “Each of us has the power to make a difference.”

For instructor Citlalli Anahuac, Arreola’s visit was a powerful extension of her Ethnic Studies curriculum, which emphasizes resistance, cultural pride, and the reclamation of erased histories. “Jag’s story shows how activism and education can go hand in hand,” Anahuac said. “He’s an example of how to live with purpose and inspire others to do the same.”

Students analyzed Arreola’s lyrics and reflected on how hip-hop can be a vehicle for empowerment and social change. “His words made me think differently about my role in my community,” one student shared.

Raised in Fontana, California, and still residing in the Inland Empire, Jag Arreola is a passionate emcee and activist committed to cultural reclamation and community empowerment. Inspired by his father, whose deep connection to their heritage instilled a sense of pride and purpose, Jag has carried these values into his music and activism.

Jag’s personal life is just as rooted in love and connection. He met his wife, Jasmine, in high school, and the two have been inseparable ever since, earning them the title of high school sweethearts. Jasmine’s unwavering support provides Jag with a sense of community and strength, especially during challenging times.

Through his work, Jag continues to inspire others, blending artistry and advocacy to uplift marginalized voices and fight for justice.

Jaguar Spirit

As Arreola concluded his talk, he left the students with a final message: “The fight isn’t over. Reclaim your narrative, support one another, and never stop resisting. They erased you out of history. Write yourself back in.”

For the students in Citlalli Anahuac’s class, Arreola’s story was more than inspiring—it was a call to action, a reminder that the spirit of resistance, like the jaguar, continues to grow stronger in the natural world.