In a rapidly evolving world grappling with the complex reality of environmental destruction, policymakers are increasingly turning to young leaders for innovative ideas and solutions. Public policy and social data science student Javier Fuentes is one such voice, committed to advancing environmental activism and social justice.
Fuentes comes from a community of “hard-working immigrants who wanted the best for their families.” Much of his passion stems from observing how the systems around him were not built to support his community, and often ignored their needs.
Environmental justice is at the forefront of many contemporary issues, affecting all aspects of life around the world—from food and water supply to health, education, migration, trade and conflict. Fuentes was drawn to environmental policy due to its impact on marginalized communities, which are often the most affected. He believes that although low income communities of color have been disproportionately impacted by these issues, they are rarely included in conversations about solutions, such as renewable energy transitions and electric vehicle use. Fuentes applies his ability to analyze the intersection of public policy and data science to advocate for more inclusive and equitable environmental policies.
Fuentes currently serves as the undergraduate co-president of La Gente, a student-led organization aimed at building community, creating connections and empowering students who identify as Latine. La Gente provides a space for Latino/a/é/x policy students to pursue their ambitions with a support system of people who have similar experiences and who are motivated by uplifting one another.
Fuentes is also involved in several community and professional initiatives, such as the Maryland Student Legislature and a summer internship at the Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE), a youth civic engagement research organization. With CIRCLE, Fuentes used his background in data analysis to analyze trends about where youth can have the biggest impact and influence in election races. From this experience, he learned that research can work toward a social good and that change can be promoted in an innovative way.
Because of this experience, Fuentes is interested in pursuing further data-driven research opportunities that have a meaningful impact on equity and justice. He believes that policymakers need to use data to create more equitable and inclusive solutions.
This August, Fuentes was one of three policy students selected for an undergraduate research award for his project, “Changing Adulthood: The Impact of Financial Instability and Delayed Adulthood on Social Connectedness Among Young Adults.” Under the mentorship of two faculty members, he explored how trends such as financial instability, delayed family formation, frequent relocation and job changes among young adults impact social connectedness and civic engagement.
Fuentes believes that diversity is Maryland’s greatest strength and he is grateful for the opportunities provided by SPP, along with the support from faculty and staff. He feels that studying policy broadens your perspectives, exposing you to ideas you may not have considered on your own, and sees policy as the best way to create positive change. His advice to students considering studying public policy is to remember, “You deserve to be in these spaces, and sharing your story allows your community to have a seat at the table.”
