Chattanooga Football Club honors Viridiana Marin, Community Organizer with the Tennessee Immigrant & Refugee Rights Coalition.
As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, Chattanooga Football Club is proud to spotlight Viridiana Marin, an East Tennessee Community Organizer with the Tennessee Immigrant & Refugee Rights Coalition.
Marin’s journey into community organizing began with the challenges her family faced upon immigrating to the United States.
"Being an immigrant myself, my family and I faced many challenges, and these struggles are shared by countless immigrant and refugee families," said Marin. "This sense of shared experience and the pursuit of opportunity to thrive is what led me to community organizing."
Her work is centered around fostering trust and ensuring that the voices of those directly impacted by systemic barriers are heard. Through community-led solutions, grassroots efforts and leadership development, Marin and her team are creating a more inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Uniting communities through soccer
Growing up, soccer was always a backdrop in Marin’s life.
"I’d hear my dad and uncles shout '¡Vamos, Chivas!' and Andrés Cantor’s famous 'GOOOOOOOOOL' would echo for what felt like an eternity," she recalls. "Soccer created a strong sense of community and shared passion for my family and friends."
She sees the sport as a universal language that transcends borders and brings people together. In Chattanooga, soccer has become a bridge between diverse groups, fostering community engagement and connection.
"When people come together through soccer, whether in informal pickup games or community events, it opens the door for dialogue and relationships. These shared experiences build bonds and cultivate a sense of belonging."
Amplifying immigrant and refugee voices through sports
Marin believes that Chattanooga Football Club can play a vital role in amplifying the voices of immigrants and refugees.
"When organizations like CFC connect with immigrant and refugee communities, they help elevate their voices and stories. Through partnerships and community engagement, immigrants and refugees are given opportunities to lead and shape how they are seen in the city. This can break down barriers and promote a more inclusive community."
Chattanooga Football Club is honored to highlight leaders like Marin, whose work strengthens the fabric of our city and reflects the power of community, culture and inclusivity.
Read more about other Hispanic community leaders by visiting our Hispanic Heritage Month page here.
