At the Arizona Democracy Resource Center (ADRC), we believe true democracy starts with us. We’re building something different: a community-rooted, people-powered organization where our voices are heard, our needs are met, and our leadership is centered.
We’re not just fighting for representation on paper; we’re creating a reality where our communities have the resources, support, and collective power to thrive. Whether you’re restoring your rights after incarceration, organizing for change in your Community, or navigating systems that weren’t built for you, we’re here for you. Our work breaks down barriers to political and economic participation, uplifts leadership that reflects the real Arizona, and redefines democracy as something deeper than voting or policy — it’s about care, community, and the power to shape our own lives. Together, we’re building a future rooted in love, liberation, and collective action.
You should live in an Arizona, where democracy isn’t something you hope for, it’s something you experience every day. That means:
A democracy where:
We believe you have the right to shape your own future
We believe that you deserve healing, restoration, not punishment or abandonment.
We believe our communities already know what we need, and we deserve the tools, resources, and power to lead that change ourselves.
We believe that equity and justice build real, lasting transformation, radical care and collective action.
We believe democracy isn’t something we inherit; it’s something we create, protect, and reimagine every day, together.
As an abolitionist organization, we know that real change doesn’t come from lawmakers or institutions — it comes from us. We are the community. We are the frontline.
We build power from within, not from above. We know our own needs, our own struggles, and our own dreams — and we know that when we center our people, we always win.
This work is personal. It’s rooted in love, collective care, and the belief that we can and will create a world where we all thrive.
The people behind ADRC bring lived experience, deep roots, and a shared commitment to justice. We believe leadership should reflect the people being served, because power is strongest when it’s shared.
“We are not here to speak for the people. We are the people.”
— ADRC Guiding Principle
M. Teresa M.
Maria Teresa is a 3rd generation Phoenician – the grandchild of Mexican migrants and Black church leaders. M. Teresa graduated from Arizona State University with an Interdisciplinary degree in Justice Studies and Music, merging two loves. They build as an organizer because she knows there is something better for all of us. She is an inaugural Electoral Justice Fellow with the Movement for Black Lives and a member of Mijente. Teresa is an avid gardener, and spends their free time enjoying the sun and views of South Mountain from her backyard.
Guadalupe M.
Guadalupe is a sister, doula, organizer, auntie, advocate, and educator. Raised by parents deeply engaged in the movement, Guadalupe is a community-rooted strategic organizer who brings a thoughtful lens to the work of race and social justice. Guadalupe actively works at the grassroots level to fight for farmworkers’ rights, advocate for reproductive freedom, and coordinate mutual aid for those excluded from vital resources. She enjoys trying new ice cream flavors, traveling around the world with her spouse, and cuddling her 2 puppies and cat.
Cassandra B.
Cassandra is the Director of Operations at The Resource Center! With over 17 years of experience in grassroots organizing, they have helped build multiple campaigns and organizations, mobilizing white people to engage in racial justice work. Cassandra is an experienced trainer and facilitator in organizing, direct action, and de-escalation. They are driven by their abolitionist spirit and energetic toddler.
Brayan Adonix G.
Brayan Adonix goal is to help formerly incarcerated individuals with resources that will elevate them to overcome any barriers from them being previously incarcerated. He loves his work and it brings him immense joy to see people's faces when he helps them with their legal issues. Brayan is a proud Phoenician and in his downtime loves collecting sneakers!
Julian B.
Julian serves as the Constellations and Development Manager at The Resource Center. A proud first-generation college graduate and lifelong Arizonan, they bring extensive experience in organizing, communications, and direct services for LGBTQIA+ communities. Julian is also a fierce advocate for students in higher education, as well as for reproductive justice and equitable healthcare access.
Gissele Moran M.
Gissele Moran M. is the Legal Clinic Director for The Resource Center's Free Legal Clinic! She loves to support her community by advocating for people with different legal situations. When not in the office, she loves to do make-up and spend time with family!
Olivia Milagro M.
Olivia is The Resource Center’s Communications Director. A second-generation Black Chicana from Guadalupe, she is fiercely committed to creating lasting change for her community. She brings a strong background in campaign work, ballot initiatives, coalition building, strategic communications, and building the infrastructure needed to sustain and scale impactful movements.
Lakisa M.
Lakisa has spent over 20 years championing maternal health, serving as a doula for fifteen years before becoming Arizona’s second certified Black homebirth midwife. Drawing on her extensive direct service experience, she has become a dedicated advocate for systemic change in maternal health. Lakisa currently contributes her expertise to the Arizona Department of Health’s Maternal Mortality Review Committee and co-chairs the Arizona Maternal Health Policy Coalition, working to advance equitable care and improve outcomes for birthing people across the state.
Paige D.
Paige is an Arizona native who has been organizing with reproductive and social justice orgs for the past eight years. Paige is a graduate from ASU with a Bachelor's in Women and Gender Studies and a Certificate in LGBTQ+ Studies. Paige is also an Abortion Doula and provides free resources for their community, including Narcan and safer sex supplies. At ADRC, they mobilize folks to create saftey for the Community by the Community. In their free time, they create zines and vend at local art markets!
You don’t need permission to make a difference. You just need a place to plug in, and a team that has your back. Whether you’re restoring your rights, standing up for justice, or ready to build something bigger in your community, you belong here!