Cynthia Mendes brings powerful experience in community organizing, policy advocacy, and movement building to Slingshot's board. Her Puerto Rican/Taino and Cape Verdean heritage informs her understanding of environmental justice and the connections between colonialism and today's climate crisis. As a former Rhode Island State Senator, Cynthia championed landmark climate legislation while building coalitions between grassroots groups and legislative allies. She is currently the MA State Co-Director for Clean Water Action and lives in Providence, Rhode Island.