Shaunice Wilson and Diana Gil-Vargas will be working with OSE’s Equity & Environment Initiative this summer to document opportunities and lessons learned as we implement the Equity & Environment Agenda, support our work with the Environmental Justice Committee, help us implement the environmental justice pilot project and provide research support for our work. Jobs, local economies, and youth pathways—opportunities for local green careers—is one of the goal areas of the Equity & Environment Agenda. Including interns in our work is one way in which we are creating pathways for young people to participate in environmental programs of our city. We are thrilled to welcome Shaunice and Diana to the team.
In Shaunice’s words: I am a native of Renton, WA studying Public Affairs at Seattle University. Though my background is in education, after completing an internship abroad this last winter I decided to concentrate on International Affairs and those communities most affected in the developing world. I am beyond eager to be working with OSE’s Equity & Environment Initiative as an intern. I hope to better understand what environmental justice means and looks like to the many diverse communities and backgrounds of residents and workers that make up Seattle. Beyond work and school, I enjoy traveling and am hoping to return to the Dominican Republic this upcoming winter!
In Diana’s words: I am an immigrant from Mexico, specifically from Mexico City. I grew up in Yakima, WA. Now, living in Seattle I enjoy exploring new sites, green spaces, and historical landmarks. I am currently an undergraduate UW student earning my Bachelor’s degree in Community, Environment, and Planning (CEP). My focus within my major and professional development is to learn about the intersectionality between diverse groups of people, culture, and the built environment. I hope to one day become a well versed urban planner to help create sustainable, equitable, and safe spaces for our marginalized communities of color. Before becoming such a planner, I am eager to build relationships and work with various communities in Seattle to gain a greater community perspective.