John Pineda is a proud father of six and a Chicano Indigenous leader deeply committed to justice, healing, and liberation. Born in Salinas and raised in Greenfield, California, he is a founding member and the Deputy Director of MILPA, supporting operations, training, and organizational development. John’s work centers on empowering formerly incarcerated leaders, uplifting communities disproportionately impacted by the justice system, and advancing cultural healing rooted in Indigenous philosophy. 

A Global Freedom Fellow alumnus, he provides training and technical assistance across the U.S. and internationally, collaborating with movement builders and system-impacted advocates to challenge mass incarceration. John amplifies the voices of those who have endured long-term incarceration and actively seeks opportunities to support leaders who are transforming the very systems that once confined them. His work is grounded in the belief that true transformation comes through community, culture, and collective healing.