Coordinator, California Civil Rights Coalition (CCRC)
Melissa began working with EJS as a consultant in August 2017 to manage some of our communications work, as well as serve as the coordinator of our 2018 Mind Science Conference. In addition to now serving as the new statewide coordinator of CCRC, Melissa continues to manage EJS’s weekly email digest, This Week in White Supremacy, which consolidates articles and social media commentary that highlight actions and policies furthering the cause of white supremacy.
Melissa brings with her a wealth of non-profit, government, and political experience, as well as a passion for advancing positive social, economic, and environmental change.
Prior to joining EJS, Melissa was a Senior District Representative for former California State Senator Loni Hancock, whom she previously worked for in the State Assembly. Melissa was the lead staff person for the Senator who worked on SB 1256, establishing January 23 as Ed Roberts Day to honor the revered disability activist and celebrate the contributions of people with disabilities to the State of California. SB 1256 was signed into law by the Governor in 2010.
She has also worked as a Legal Intern for Positive Resource Center, in San Francisco, as well as the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF), in Berkeley.
Melissa has served on numerous boards and commissions, including as the current Chair of the Board of Directors of The Center for Independent Living (TheCIL), which provides advocacy and services for people with disabilities.
Melissa received both her B.A. (Political Science) and her J.D. from U.C. Berkeley, and is a member of the California State Bar.