From Covid to climate change to racial tensions and even war, we live in challenging times, forcing us to adapt and find innovative ways to survive and thrive. That’s exactly what four Latinas are doing right here in Arizona, and we believe Women’s History Month is the perfect time to highlight their work and recognize their impact in our latino community.
Latinas connecting rural Arizonans with opportunities
Kareena Correa, Digital Coordinator for RAZE, an organization connecting rural Arizonans with opportunities to be civically engaged for a better future.
A single mother of two who is making a difference in her community by her determination and compassion.
A daughter of Mexican American parents and first-generation Mexican American on her father’s side, Correa is inspired by strong women who keep going and building the life they deserve despite the obstacles.
Latinas fighting for our communities and climate justice
Dulce Juarez, Co-Director for Chispa Arizona, an organization that seeks environmental justice, is proudly Mexican with indigenous roots who would like to ensure her four-year-old daughter’s generation and generations after hers can breathe clean air and enjoy a beautiful and healthy planet.
Adventurous and dynamic, Juarez joined Chispa because her elders taught her we should live in harmony and balance with Mother Earth and believes in our ability to positively impact it.
And thanks to her elementary school mentors, Dulce learned about the power of people and the power of believing in herself to make adifference in the world.
Vianey Olivarría, also Co-Director for Chispa Arizona, was born in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, and is the oldest of three sisters, a teacher, and an economist. She believes we are experiencing a climate crisis and our communities of color are the most impacted; that’s why she works to protect our present and future by protecting our environment and fighting for more just climate plans.
Olivarría’s tenacity and vision allow her to stand in her power and relies on her community to keep her grounded.
Inspired by all the women around her, Vianey will continue to fight for our communities and climate justice.
Latinas seeking a 100 percent clean energy transition
Yara Marin, Reginal Director for Vote Solar, an organization seeking a 100 percent clean energy transition that puts the interests, health and well-being of people at its center, is also the daughter of Mexican immigrants.
Marin has worked twice as hard to ensure her parents’ sacrifices are worth it and encourages other Latinas to embrace their stories and be their most authentic selves.
Her optimistic and resilient spirit has driven her to stand up for her community and fight back against injustices.
Growing up, she often felt frustrated that communities of color were not educated on issues that directly impacted our health, our infrastructure, and our livelihood. This inspired her to get involved in the climate movement and begin my journey with Vote Solar.
