Randy Ertll lived in El Salvador as a child but grew up in South Central Los Angeles throughout the late 1970s and 80s. He has observed the dynamic challenges of Salvadoran communities throughout the United States, and has transcended the struggles of a Salvadoran American. While focusing on social justice issues and the role of the government, Ertll sends a message that we all can be agents of positive change and that minority youth in impoverished areas can succeed and become productive citizens.