Bio
Michelle Lucero is a rising senior in CAS. They are majoring in Public Policy, with double minors in Social and Cultural Analysis and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Studies. In the past, Michelle has been an intern at non-profit organizations throughout New York City such as The Fortune Society and Sanctuary for Families. As a Gallatin Global Fellow in Urban Practice this summer, Michelle will be working with the Women’s Housing and Economic Development Corporation (WHEDco) located in the South Bronx. Michelle is excited to be working with WHEDco this summer, as this will give them the opportunity to witness the impacts of organizing and advocacy on the South Bronx community. Throughout the summer, Michelle hopes to work closely with coalition and organization leaders throughout the Bronx.
Mission Statement
Throughout this summer, I aim to understand the ways in which organizations like WHEDco and coalitions throughout the South Bronx have successfully organized and advocated both on their own and in collaboration with other organizations throughout the Bronx. I believe that discovering what elements and characteristics are necessary for an organization to best function for the communities that they are serving is incredibly important. Observing these elements could allow other local organizations and coalitions to not only be created, but to also expand and grow even more successful.
Research has been conducted throughout the Bronx that continuously reveal the disadvantages that they face as a result of the government’s inability to provide the entire Bronx with the support they need. My goal for the fellowship throughout this summer is not to record more stories of poverty, health disparities, and lack of resources within the South Bronx community. Rather, my goal throughout this summer focuses on highlighting the South Bronx through demonstrating the ways in which they are fighting back, advocating, and organizing, as they are demanding their right to the city. Their ability and desire to come together truly demonstrates the power of the people.
The Gallatin Global Fellowship in Urban Practice provides funding of up to $5,000 and support for 6-10 advanced BA and MA students to pursue extended, community-engaged, practice-based research projects in partnership with urban social justice organizations.
