Sociology student Lilia Martinez joins UC Berkeley’s Labor Summer Internship Program

Sociology Student Spotlight: Lilia Martinez

The Department of Sociology congratulates sociology senior, Lilia Martinez for her outstanding leadership, scholarship and activism in the areas of labor and social justice. Lilia has been an intern with the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor since Fall 2020 and is currently a scholar in the Ronald E. McNair Post-baccalaureate Achievement Program. Most recently, Lilia joined UC Berkeley’s prestigious “Labor Summer Internship Program” as a researcher and organizing intern.

We asked Lilia to describe her motivation to research and organize for labor, workers’ rights, and social justice.

Lilia: “I will soon be graduating with a bachelor of arts degree in Sociology in the Fall class of 2021…I am a proud Latina from the heart of East Los Angeles, a daughter of immigrants, and a passionate student activist, and Christian. Throughout every season of my life, I make it a paramount goal to give back to the community and to the next generation of students and individuals just like myself; and that is exactly why my work and research with the LA Fed and McNair Scholars program is so important and fulfilling to me. Moreover, my sociology professors at Cal State Long Beach, such as my mentor, Dr. Jake Wilson, have consistently provided me with the networks and connections I need to reach my goals and get accepted to the UC Berkeley Labor Summer program for example. These kinds of resources at Cal State Long Beach have not only enabled me to chase my own goals and aspirations, but they have given me a platform to do the same for my peers and communities. As a passionate advocate for community involvement, equitable representation, research, and labor rights, I recognize just how much work needs to be done. Thanks to Cal State Long Beach and the people I have met along the way, I am filled with hope and inspiration that we can work together to create a better future for all! As I look ahead, I am filled with excitement and look forward to participating in the McNair Scholars program and UC Berkeley’s Labor Summer internship so I can make the greatest positive impact possible for my community and others just like it!”