Carmen Martinez

Carmen Martinez

Carmen Martinez was born and raised in South Sacramento, California, and is currently attending Sacramento State University as an English Major and Minor in Journalism. Carmen is dedicated to uplifting the voices of youth in underserved communities that are too often ignored. By working with organizations like Brown Issues and Communities for a New California Education Fund, Carmen has been able to translate decision making in the Capitol back to the people that it impacts. Through her efforts, Carmen aspires to work in the Education system to create more just and equal opportunities for youth to pursue higher education instead of facing incarceration.

The John Sperling Fellowship trained Carmen with the same grassroots organizing skills that have led to major social change. Being a part of this cohort reassured Carmen that in a time where fundamental human rights are at risk, the skills she has learned will guide her to building people power and work on systemic change.