Marshall Martinez - Executive Director
Marshall is an organizer, and has been a political strategist for multiple candidates and organizations; from fighting climate change with the League of Conservation Voters to working for fair pay and safe working conditions with AFSCME-the public employees labor union. All personal fights because, like all of us, he has lived a multi-issue life.
Born and raised in Alamogordo, New Mexico, to a working-class family and a group of particularly strong women (and a few great men, too!) in High School he worked to educate young people about safer sex. Marshall’s policy expertise focuses on Gender and Sexuality, Bodily Autonomy, and Reproductive and Sexual Healthcare. Marshall also prides himself on his skillset for navigating attacks against our values, in ways that build power for the communities being attacked rather than just winning the short-term fight. Marshall strongly believes in the African Proverb “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together."
Please contact Marshall Martinez for all media inquiries.
C:505-363-0152 (Media & Policy Inquiries only)
Nathan Saavedra (he/him) Project Manager
Nathan has been with EQNM for the past two years, beginning in his junior year of college at the University of New Mexico, where he graduated in 2024 with a bachelors in political science and intercultural communications. He was born in Albuquerque, NM and raised in Belen, NM, a town which ingrained into him the strength and value of community, along with the desire to advocate for a more equal and empathetic society.
While not working, Nathan enjoys a consistent search for new hobbies until the "right one" is found or a collection of "right ones". So far including reading, painting, and spending time in the community.
Michelle Najera (she/her) Administrative Assistant
Michelle Najera is a Latina born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She is currently pursuing a degree in Biology with hopes of becoming a Physician Assistant. Michelle's passion for the medical field stems from her desire to help others, a value instilled in her from a young age.
Growing up in a close-knit Mexican family, Michelle loves spending time with her close friends and relatives. When she's not studying or working, she finds joy in hobbies such as dance, going to the gym, reading, painting, and playing the electric guitar. Michelle’s desire to give a voice to her community is why she loves to work with EQNM!
Gauge Burnett (he/him) - Development Associate
Gauge is a transgender activist and recent transplant to southern New Mexico. He received his BA in political science and mathematics from Washington College in 2019. After an abbreviated service with AmeriCorps NCCC, he spent a year at Iowa State University as a grad student and sculpture artist working to make exciting math accessible to general audiences. Gauge also holds a master's in mathematical sciences from NMSU.
At NMSU, Gauge founded Students for Reproductive Rights and found joy in queer community. He serves on the southern NM Walk to End Alzheimer's organizing committee in between his hiking, biking, and unicycling adventures across the state.
Hazel Valente - Compton Organizer
Hazel is a Trans Woman who dedicated her teenage years to advocating for the LGBTQ+ community at her school. She founded the school's GSA and conducted seminars for teachers and staff on effectively supporting LGBTQ+ students. Her commitment to organizing and community activism ignited a profound passion for driving change.
Currently studying Political Science at CNM, Hazel aspires to enter policy work to safeguard LGBTQ+ rights. Alongside her academic pursuits, she is an artist dedicated to creating empowering and uplifting art for both LGBTQ+ and plus-sized individuals. Her enthusiasm for public speaking and law fuels her desire to contribute to EQNM's mission of protecting the LGBTQ+ community and amplifying its voices.
Rudy Montoya - Brand & Marketing Manager
Rudy is a seasoned graphic designer and Brand and Marketing Manager with over 15 years of experience. Currently working for a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing political change for LGBTQ individuals, he is passionate about using design to amplify voices and foster community empowerment. Raised in New Mexico, he has collaborated with various non-profits to create positive change for underserved communities. With a strong commitment to advocacy and creativity, Rudy strives to make a meaningful impact through effective branding and strategic marketing.