Giselle Barajas
Giselle Barajas is an Oakland native living in Deep East Oakland. She has witnessed gun violence firsthand and have known many people who have lost loved ones to it. This violence deeply affects predominantly Black and Brown communities, creating lasting trauma that continues to marginalize them. When their communities’ needs go unmet and their experiences are ignored by the law and police, that trauma only grows. She believes that by centering community needs and uplifting the voices of youth, we can begin to heal, break the cycle of trauma, and create a thriving, safer future for everyone.
Giselle joined NYRA in Feburary 2026 and currently works on the Communications Team and Action Team
NYRA East Bay
Giselle Barajas is the Co-Organizer of the NYRA East Bay node, along with Jayla Davis. Together, they have the goal of advocating for youth representation, promoting restorative justice for youth, and preventing gun violence. The NYRA East Bay Node operates across California’s East Bay, including Oakland, San Francisco, and San Jose.
Giselle’s Podcast Episodes:
Youth Rights Podcast Ep 13: The Importance of Restorative Justice for Youth
NYRA members Zane Miller, Giselle Barajas and Jayla Davis speak with Xochtil Larios, a Youth restorative justice advocate. Listen as they speak about restorative justice policies in school and communities, and how to shift away from a punitive prison system.
Listen to the Episode on Spotify and Apple Podcasts
Other members Included: Zane Miller, Jayla Davis
Guest: Xochtil Larios – Youth Justice Coordinator at Curyj
