Parker Martin has been working at the CSS since May of 2023. As a new member of the staff, Parker is most looking forward to “exploring and analyzing the multitude of ways communities are conceptualizing and operationalizing reparations”. “There is a lot to learn from our community partners and their knowledge is invaluable for the battle against systemic oppression and the structures of white supremacy,” says Parker. 


As a doctoral intern, Parker will be working on the Crafting Democratic Futures (CDF) project. CDF creates and leverages a national network of college and university-based humanities scholars, working in partnerships with community-based organizations, to develop research-informed preparation plans for each location.


Prior to working at the Center, Parker graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in Economics & Management. Upon graduation, he worked as a high school adviser with the Carolina College Advising Corps. Parker served in Wilson, NC, and worked to increase access to post-secondary opportunities for students from historically underserved communities. He also served as a coordinator for The Gentlemen’s Agreement, a local countywide mentoring program for young men of color. After service, Parker received his Master of Public Policy from Duke University. He held positions as a Research & Policy Analyst and worked on affordable housing, Black-owned business support, food access, agriculture, and disaster recovery in North Carolina. 


At the University of Michigan, his research is centered on race and ethnicity, with a focus on reparative social policies. Beyond research, he considers himself an avid sneakerhead, a Hip-Hop aficionado, and spends his free time drawing and producing music. 


We are excited to welcome Parker to our team at the Center for Social Solutions!

Learn more about Crafting Democratic Futures on the project website.