Solena Ornelas, a dedicated musician, dynamic champion for societal transformation, and Afro-Latina woman, is deeply engaged in scholarly pursuits that challenge conventional ideologies and advocate for genuine systemic change.  Her scholarly interests lie at the intersection of political theory, social justice, and liberation movements. Through her research, Solena interrogates the efficacy of traditional liberal democratic approaches in addressing the needs of historically marginalized communities. She critiques the prevailing emphasis on diversification and democratic oversight within the context of the Global West, arguing that such efforts may inadvertently reinforce existing white supremacist structures. Drawing on Paulo Freire's seminal work, "Pedagogy of the Oppressed," Solena advocates for a paradigm shift towards liberation movements that prioritize the active involvement of historically oppressed individuals. In addition to her scholarly endeavors, Solena brings a unique perspective to her work as a classically trained bass player. Through her musical performances, she seeks to challenge dominant narratives and amplify underrepresented voices. Her commitment to performing pieces with intentionality reflects her broader dedication to subverting conventional norms and fostering inclusive spaces for expression and creativity. Solena Ornelas's multifaceted approach to academia and the arts underscores her passion for effecting meaningful change.