Enrique Castro Jr.

Democrats across the country had a strong showing on election night. From a democratic socialist becoming New York's youngest and first Muslim mayor to the victories of moderate Democratic women in Virginia and New Jersey’s gubernatorial races, the party is showing new signs of life. For a political movement that had struggled to rebuild after years of setbacks, these wins suggest a renewed sense of energy, direction, and purpose.

That same spirit of renewal can be seen close to home in Berks County, where Enrique Castro Jr. was recently elected to the Muhlenberg Township School Board. He may be the first openly gay school board member for Muhlenberg and Berks County. Though he has never hidden who he is, he didn't make that or being Latino a focus of his campaign; he ran as a “Dad.” Among the new generation of local Democratic leaders, Castro stands out for his resilience, community commitment, and deeply personal journey.

Born and raised in Brooklyn to Puerto Rican parents, Castro-known affectionately as "Ricky" to friends-grew up knowing that success would come only through his own determination. "I realized early on that if I wanted something in life, I had to go out and make it happen," he said as he setup his DJ equipment at Frymores, a Mullhulenberg bar and restaurant where he hosts karaoke parties every Friday night.

As a young gay man in New York City, he sought belonging and built his own chosen family among others who were creative, driven, and often marginalized. That sense of community and purpose became the foundation for his life's work.

Today, Castro lives in Muhlenberg Township with his husband, Wilson, and their two children. In his early forties, he has built a family and a home that reflect both modern America and the power of perseverance. "I take care of the outside of the house and anything that needs to be fixed or replaced," he said with a smile. "Wilson handles the cleaning and laundry. I do all the grocery shopping since I'm the one that cooks."

Castro's days are full. "My typical day starts with getting myself ready, then waking up the kids and getting them ready for school," he explained. "No day is the same... there is always some kind of practice or event going on for them or us, which is how we spend most evenings."

His commitment to service is extensive. "On some Wednesdays, both Wilson and I have meetings for the nonprofit boards we serve on," he noted. Castro currently serves on the board of Nami Berks, which provides services and awareness around mental health, and on the Latino advisory council for Penn State Berks. He also formerly served on the Latino advisory council for the Pennsylvania Turnpike commission. Until now, he "attended school board meetings as a community member—that will change next month when I'm sworn in."

Castro is also a familiar face in the wider Berks County community. He DJs family dances and the annual Christmas tree lighting for the neighboring community of West Reading. His love for community fun was on full display recently when he organized a karaoke-themed float for the local Halloween parade, encouraging spectators to sing along. This engagement also has a serious side: he volunteered on the West Reading Borough Council's diversity council, where he helped pass a non-discrimination resolution for the borough.

Castro now brings that energy and experience to public service in education. His election represents not only a personal milestone but also a step forward for inclusive leadership in Berks County. With attacks on the LGBTQ+ community now more prevalent than they have been in years, it’s important that LGBTQ+ students have an advocate and are able to see themselves represented in these positions. As Democrats nationwide look to rebuild and reconnect with their communities, local leaders like Enrique Castro Jr. embody what that renewal can look like—determined, compassionate, and deeply rooted in service.