Rosalba Valdez is a Mexican-American musician bred in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago. From the age of five, Rosalba would take guitar classes anywhere and everywhere they were offered in her community. “Rosie” would eventually find a home at Lincoln United Methodist Church, led by activists/pastors Emma Lozano and Walter Coleman. Regularly playing for Sunday services and community events led her to grow up in an environment of activism and community engagement/organizing all while finding her music had as much place in the struggle as it did anywhere else. Rosie learned that she could speak out about the injustices in her community and stay true to her identity all while pursuing her passion. The name of her debut EP, “Yo Soy Mexicana,” comes from the immense pride Rosalba has for being of Mexican descent and being first generation, Mexican-American born of immigrant parents. In today’s political climate Rosalba believes it is important to not only be vocal but active in the community. Rosalba is proud of her culture and heritage and seeks to preserve and honor it with her music.