Chelsea Tu recently joined Public Advocates as a Staff Attorney on the Metropolitan Equity Team where she advocates for transportation, housing and climate justice on behalf of low-income communities and communities of color. When she isn’t fighting for social justice, Chelsea enjoys a wide range of active and meditative activities — from rock-climbing to yoga.
Welcome to Public Advocates Chelsea!
Q: Why did you decide to join Public Advocates?
Chelsea: I decided to work at Public Advocates because it excels at what I am passionate about: protecting the rights of low-income and minority communities to live in a healthy and thriving environment. Specifically, Public Advocates is one of the only organizations I know of that uses both its legal and policy acumen while also practicing its belief in the power and wisdom of the people through its community-driven solutions model. Public Advocates is a force to be reckoned with in the social justice world, and I am thankful I am part of this great agent for change.
Q: What do you find satisfying about your field?
Chelsea: I find it very satisfying to work with and on behalf of those who are often left out of the decision making process by bringing their voices to policy makers, and helping people create a future that is equitable, healthy and takes care of our planet.
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside work?
Chelsea: I love everything that is both active and meditative, from rock-climbing, hiking, snorkeling, practicing yoga, to drinking beer. I really enjoy taking backpacking trips where I can immerse myself in learning the culture, people and environment of a specific place.
Q: Do you have a favorite quote?
Chelsea:
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure . . . [A]s we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” — Nelson Mandela
Q: Anything else that you want to add?
Chelsea: I am amazed at how everyone at Public Advocates treats his or her work and each other with the utmost thoughtfulness, respect and love. This allows the firm to be both highly effective and a happy place to work at.
