May Tiwamangkala

Advancing Justice | Chicago is excited to announce May Tiwamangkala has joined the team as our new Director of Organizing! May is deeply passionate about driving systemic change and advancing racial equity. Originally from Illinois, May moved to Arizona after high school to attend Arizona State University (ASU) and study Philosophy. However, their college journey was interrupted when they were incarcerated for two years. During their time in prison, May focused on self-development, completing educational programs, and reading books donated by an ASU professor. They also tutored women working toward their GEDs and worked with one of the only all-women’s wildland firefighting crews in Arizona. 

After their release, May turned their attention to advocacy for marginalized communities. They joined the Puente Human Rights Movement, a Latinx-led organization known for its fight against Arizona’s SB1070 “Show Me Your Papers” law and former Sheriff Joe Arpaio. As a Criminal Justice Organizer, May worked to build bridges between AANHPI and Latinx communities. With Puente’s support, they led a vigil at the Arizona State Capitol for the victims of the Atlanta shooting during the Stop AAPI Hate movement. When faced with mixed reactions from different communities of color, May organized a Unity March, believing that cross-racial collaboration is essential to creating real change. 

May’s most recent role was as Advocacy Director at Arizona AANHPI for Equity, where they led multiple successful advocacy campaigns, including defeating a predatory sports arena proposal in Tempe and litigating to protect voting rights for naturalized citizens. Outside of work, May enjoys exploring Chicago, reading about history, and spending time outdoors with their dog.