Roxan McKinnon

Roxan McKinnon has been tapped to become the new executive director of City Life/Vida Urbana (CLVU), the organization’s board recently announced.

McKinnon, who was selected after what the board called in a statement “an extensive search that included an in-depth organizational analysis and realignment of the organization with its core mission,” assumed her new position on Nov. 12.

McKinnon brings a depth of experience and commitment to organizing for justice and equality. She has worked in health care, is an artist, has worked with youth, and been a tenant activist for many years.

She first became involved with City Life 10 years ago as a tenant leader from 59 Amory Street, where she helped form the ASTAND Tenant Association. McKinnon later became involved in the larger tenant rights movement, and has been the assistant coordinator of the Boston Tenant Coalition for the last six years. McKinnon joined the CLVU Board in 2003 and served as its board president on two occasions.

“With Ms. McKinnon’s leadership, City Life/Vida Urbana looks forward to strengthening and aligning its resources with a vision of empowerment of people,” said the board in its statement.

Founded in Jamaica Plain in 1973, City Life/Vida Urbana is a grassroots community organization committed to fighting for racial, social and economic justice and gender equality by building working class power through direct action, coalition building, education and advocacy.

“Through organizing poor and working class people of diverse races and nationalities, we promote individual empowerment, develop community leaders and build collective power to effect systemic change and transform society,” said the board’s statement.