Erika Lopez has been engaged in mission-driven communications since 2019, when she joined the Carey Institute for Global Good, a nonprofit which, among other things, supported journalists under threat and hosted a 12-week residency at the Institute’s campus. Erika observed as journalists completed long form projects—books, podcasts, documentaries, and photography collections—on critical issues such as the prison industrial complex, immigration realities, U.S. foreign policy, and racial violence in America. This experience underscored the vital role diverse forms and levels of communication play in advancing progressive movements.

Before joining PCJF, Erika spearheaded communication initiatives addressing youth homelessness at the National Homelessness Law Center. The youth team is dedicated to educating young individuals about their rights, the policies that impact them, available legal resources, and advocacy tools. She also serves on the board for a local system of shelters that offer 100% nonjudgemental housing and support services across two counties.

Erika joins PCJF with a passion for protecting the right to protest and dissent, recognizing those that stand against genocide, xenophobia, bigotry, exploitation, and environmental collapse are on the right side of history. She stands in solidarity with those putting their bodies on the line across progressive movements.