Learn more about Marina Vaz, CLF's Nashua environmental justice advocate.
How did you first develop your interest in environmental causes?
My interest stems from seeing the passion of people around me, like my mom, grandmother, and sister. Each was an environmental advocate in unique ways: My grandmother grew up on a farm and struggled with access to resources, which led her to become a lawyer interested in water conservation. My mom, who studied business, was passionate about sustainability and worked in corporate social responsibility in Brazil, often in environments resistant to these ideas. This combination of personal experiences and my studies on international politics and environmental issues at the University of New Hampshire solidified my interest.
What does environmental justice mean to you?
To me, it boils down to burdens and benefits. Environmental justice is needed to ensure everyone has access to benefits: green spaces, clean air and water, and safe, energy-efficient homes. On the flip side, it’s about stopping the pattern where vulnerable communities disproportionately bear environmental burdens due to economic status, race, or origin. With climate change and environmental issues in the spotlight, pushing for greener, cleaner economies and more equitable systems that support traditionally excluded communities is vital.
What’s your primary goal as a community advocate in Nashua?
My main goal is to foster a robust environmental justice advocacy community. To achieve this, I believe in two key strategies. First, we must equip residents with the knowledge and tools to understand how environmental threats impact their daily lives. Second, it’s crucial to actively involve them in crafting and implementing solutions to the issues that matter most to them.
By engaging those most affected at every stage, we can uplift the voices that have long been excluded from decision-making. That helps raise awareness of how environmental issues—such as housing, transportation, and access to green spaces—intersect with daily life, leading to more just decisions for the community.
For Nashua, success means embracing diverse perspectives and addressing critical issues like making our streets safer, enhancing public transportation, and improving language access. These efforts are essential for fostering truly inclusive public participation.
What excites you the most about this position?
I’m excited by the opportunity to make a tangible difference in a community ready for change. As we expand our work into Nashua, I see a unique chance to co-create and engage with the residents. The prospect of addressing issues like improving public transportation and enhancing green spaces is both daunting and exciting. We now have the tools and the community support to identify problems and implement effective solutions. Being part of this transformative process is incredibly fulfilling.
What’s your favorite thing about New England?
Oh, there’s so much to love about New England! Even though it’s relatively small, it has so much variety, and each state has its unique vibe. Specifically, in the Nashua-Manchester area, I love the diversity. Despite New Hampshire’s reputation for being very white, our cities and towns have thriving immigrant communities and communities of color. This diversity shines through in local businesses, community events, and the overall character of each community. It’s something special.
Bonus: Can you tell me about your passions and hobbies outside of work?
To be honest, I have a passion for fashion. It’s a great means of self-expression. The fashion industry is a massive contributor to waste and water contamination, so making sustainable changes can significantly impact environmental health. People have always used it to present themselves, and it’s a big part of society. So, yes, I’m personally passionate about fashion and see its importance in our work.
