Mars Kamenski (he/they) is the Community Engagement Specialist for the Council for LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans. He has 12+ experience working in systems and government in a range of roles from a corrections officer, probation officer, researcher, project manager, professor, and equity manager. His mix of direct service and macros level systems change offers him a unique perspective  which centers the voices of those most impacted by systems, identifies what isn't working in systems, and uses policy and inside/outside organizing strategies to transform systems. Mars' experience in research and program development led to the creation of the first Transition Age Youth probation unit in the State of Minnesota. This strategic initiative was rooted in better serving 18-24 year olds by being responsive to their neurodevelopment. Mars led Hennepin County's transgender equity work as the Transgender and Gender Non-conforming Employee Resource Group Co-Chair, advocating for better healthcare coverage for trans employees and creating an ally toolkit for employees. Most recently, he advanced LGBTQIA+ equity work at the City of Minneapolis as the first ever LGBTQIA+ Equity Manager.

 

Mars is a current board member of Gender Justice Action. He has also served on the boards of the MN Second Chance Coalition, the Minnesota Social Services Association, and the Youth Intervention Programs Association. Mars served as an appointed member for the MN State Advisory Task force on Female Offenders and most recently the Minneapolis Transgender Equity Council. 

 

Mars has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota with a double major in Psychology and Sociology of Law, Criminology, and Deviance. They also hold a Master’s of Science in Public Safety Executive Leadership and a certification in Project Management from the University of Minnesota.

 

Mars lives in South Minneapolis with his cat, Charli. In his spare time, Mars likes to be outside in nature, lift weights, attend raves and music festivals, cook and try every new restaurant in the City, bike, longboard, hang out with loved ones, read nonfiction, write poetry and talk about the healing powers of transmasculinity.