Leadership in Community with Vivian Huelgo and Terra Russell-Slavin

At Esperanza United, we know no single organization or person is going to end domestic and sexual violence alone – it takes communities working together. That’s why Latina leadership and community-based solutions are two of our organizational values. 

To advance this strengths-based approach, Esperanza United President and CEO Vivian Huelgo, J.D., interviews leaders whose work is creating change, advancing equity, and strengthening communities across the country. Through these conversations, we celebrate the people behind the work, reflect on lessons in leadership, and share our collective vision for a future free from violence. 

In this edition, Vivian speaks with Terra Russell-Slavin, Chief Strategy Officer at the Los Angeles LGBT Center. With more than two decades of experience advancing justice, equity, and support for LGBTQ communities, Terra reflects on the courage leadership requires during times of uncertainty, the importance of mentoring emerging leaders, and their vision for a future where everyone can live with dignity, safety, and the freedom to thrive. Pues, vamos: 

Vivian: One of our organizational values is Latina Leadership, what does leadership mean to you? 

Terra: To me, leadership begins with the courage to take responsibility—especially in moments of uncertainty or crisis. It means standing firmly in both our organizational and personal values, even when it is difficult to do so. True leadership also requires centering those most impacted by today’s ongoing attacks on our communities and recognizing when the most powerful thing we can do is listen, follow the lead of others, and act in solidarity. 

Vivian: How do you mentor or support the next generation of leaders? 

Terra: Being an effective mentor starts with humility—by intentionally listening to and learning from the next generation. From there, I focus on helping emerging leaders identify their passions, cultivate their strengths, and claim their voices. I aim to create opportunities for them to build new skills, take thoughtful risks, and experiment with new approaches, while offering guidance and encouragement along the way. 

Vivian: What is a lesson you learned recently that surprised you?  

Terra: I’ve been powerfully reminded that progress is not inevitable. The gains our communities have made can never be taken for granted; they require constant vigilance, engagement, and care. This lesson reinforces for me that our work is ongoing—and that sustaining progress demands both urgency and collective responsibility. 

Vivian: One of our other organizational values is living free from violence, what does a violence-free future look like to you?  

Terra: A violence-free future is one where everyone—especially those pushed to the margins—can live with dignity, safety, and autonomy. It means far more than the absence of physical harm. It includes bodily autonomy, access to culturally affirming resources, and the freedom to live full, joyful lives; lives where people are not just surviving but truly thriving. 

Vivian: Gratitude is so important: Tell me about something you are grateful for? 

Terra: I am deeply thankful for my immediate and chosen family and friends, who have shown up for us with so much care and love, especially in the wake of the Altadena fire. I’m also grateful for the small, everyday moments, like my child dancing to Lady Gaga or a client’s success story. These moments fuel my resolve and remind me why this work matters so deeply.