My research agenda centers on the impact that planning and policy have on undocumented and system-impacted populations in the context of disasters in the U.S. The projects below represent my current research:
Sonoma County Ag Pass Project
The Sonoma County Ag Pass Project investigates the effects of wildfires on undocumented Latino/a and indigenous farmworkers, one of Sonoma County’s most vulnerable populations, methods of wildfire smoke air quality monitoring, and unjust labor practices. Working alongside Northbay Job with Justice, this project translates research findings into practical recommendations that strengthen disaster planning for agricultural regions.
Explore this project:
Policy Brief: 1) Sonoma County’s Agriculture Pass program 2) Air Quality Monitoring | | Publications | Presentations | ArcGIS Story Map
UndocuFund Network Project
The UndocuFund Network Project examines how immigrant-serving organizations support undocumented communities before, during, and after disasters. Drawing on interviews, participant observation, and community partnerships, this research highlights the often-overlooked role of community-based organizations in disaster preparedness, emergency response, mutual aid, and long-term recovery.
Working alongside the UndocuFund Network and 805 UndocuFund, this work has resulted in both scholarly and community-facing publications, including the UndocuFund Network Report and a recent peer-reviewed article published in RSF: The Russell Sage Foundation Journal of the Social Sciences. Together, these publications document how immigrant-serving organizations respond to climate hazards and disasters while offering lessons for policymakers, emergency managers, and community organizations seeking to build more equitable disaster systems.
Explore this project
UndocuFund Network Report | RSF Journal Article
Eaton Fire Recovery Project
The Eaton Fire Recovery Project examines the experiences of day laborers and outdoor workers involved in debris removal, cleanup, and rebuilding efforts following the 2025 Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County. Working alongside the National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON), this research investigates occupational health and safety, labor conditions, immigration enforcement, income instability, and barriers to disaster recovery. The project seeks to elevate worker experiences and inform policies that improve labor protections and create more equitable disaster recovery systems.
Policy Brief (Coming Soon)
Carlo Chunga Pizarro 