Javier Murillo
JAVIER MURILLO (he/him/his) is a senior at UCLA majoring in Sociology and Chicana/o studies. As a Policy Fellow within the Research Department of UCLA’s Latino Policy & Politics Institute, he is committed to advancing educational equity, justice, and opportunity for communities affected by violence, over-policing, and limited educational opportunities.
As a Mellon Mays Undergraduate Research Fellow, Javier studies the intersections of systemic violence, incarceration, and education in marginalized communities. Drawing on his lived experiences, his research is guided by a commitment to producing knowledge that centers liberation, equity, and justice while informing evidence-backed policies that dismantle structural barriers.
Beyond research, Javier serves as an Academic Peer Mentor with the Los Angeles Room & Board’s Court-to-College program, supporting formerly incarcerated youth pursuing higher education. He provides academic guidance, navigational support, and mentorship informed by his own experiences growing up in over-policed neighborhoods, supporting students navigating systems that have historically limited their opportunities.
Born and raised in Chicago’s Mexican diaspora, Javier’s experiences with neighborhood violence, racialized policing, and educational inequities inform his dedication to empowering youth through mentorship, community engagement, and policy advocacy. He plans to pursue a PhD and a career combining research, teaching, and policy to expand opportunities that strengthen youth and communities.
