How did you come to work in housing justice?
I was a journalist for 7 years before deciding to switch careers. I covered a lot of social issues in Chicago and around Texas. I could trace most inequity and tragedy faced by the people I wrote about to racist housing policies, greedy financial institutions, and the failure of public officials to reckon with these truths. I couldn’t just keep writing about this stuff. I needed to do something. I went to social work school and took all the community organizing classes I could. I was also the only social worker attending law school and policy school classes to learn about real estate, banking, consumer protection, and fair housing. I was hired at Texas Housers soon after to run communications, but loved working with staff on messaging, coalition building, and most of all, supporting community leaders in their fights for tenant protections and keeping their communities rooted and whole.

What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
I’m so excited to LEARN! I have brain crushes on so many of the leaders of the affiliates as well as the staff at PowerSwitch Action — I know I’ll just soak up all I can from y’all and the many partners in this work and hopefully contribute my little “granito de arena.” Also, living in Texas can be difficult politically. It’s hard to keep the hope alive and find ways to be inspired. Working with all the affiliates and staff who are looking toward a long-term vision for housing and land justice will help keep me dreaming of what could be while also staying grounded to do the work alongside them.

What are some things you do when you’re not working?
I’m sewing my way to a handmade wardrobe — my wardrobe is about 40% me-made. I also watch a lot of baseball (RIP good Cubs), read (mostly narrative nonfiction), and sing along to my bad ukulele playing (I’m a decent singer, though!). My 14-month-old son, Clemente, also keeps me very busy.

Please join me in welcoming Christina to the PowerSwitch Action family!

In unity,