Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Biography
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez is an American environmental activist and hip hop artist who was born in Boulder, Colorado, United States of America, and brought up in Mexico. He is widely known as the former Youth Director of Earth Guardians, inspiring and mobilizing young people around the world to take action on climate change. He has also spoken at prestigious events such as the United Nations Climate Change Conference and the World People’s Conference on Climate.
Martinez is one of the 21 plaintiffs involved in the Juliana vs United States case, suing the federal government for failing to act on climate change. Also, he is one of the seven plaintiffs involved in the Martinez vs Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission lawsuit, whose aim is the same as that of Juliana v. United States but on a state level.
As a teenager, Martinez gave TED talks and was invited to speak before the United Nations on environmental policy. At 15 he spoke in English, Spanish, and Nahuatl before the UN General Assembly on Climate Change. He lived with his family in Boulder, Colorado through 2019 before later moving to Portland, Oregon.
10 Quick Facts About Xiuhtezcatl Martinez
- Name: Xiuhtezcatl Martinez
- Age: 24 years old
- Birthday: May 9
- Zodiac Sign: Taurus
- Height: Average
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: Environmental Activist and Hip Hop Artist
- Marital Status: Single
- Salary: Under Review
- Net worth: $1 Million – $5 Million
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Age
Martinez is 24 years old. He was born on May 9, 2000, in Boulder, Colorado, United States. He celebrate his birthday on May 9 every year and his birth sign is Taurus.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Height
Martinez stands at an average height. He appears to be quite tall in stature if his photos, relative to his surroundings, are anything to go by. However, details regarding his actual height and other body measurements are currently not publicly available. We will update this section when the information is available.
Early Life and Education
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez was born on May 9, 2000, in Boulder, Colorado. His name is of Aztec origin and translates to “fire-bird warrior.” His mother, Tamara Roske, is a co-founder of the Earth Guardian Community Resource Center, an environmental education center in Maui, Hawaii. His father, Siri Martinez, is a musician and composer.
Xiuhtezcatl spent his early childhood in both Colorado and Mexico. He was exposed to environmental issues from a young age and developed a deep connection with nature. His family’s involvement in activism also played a significant role in shaping his worldview.
Xiuhtezcatl’s formal education has been somewhat unconventional. He attended a variety of schools, including the Earth Guardian Community Resource Center and the Boulder Journey School. He also received homeschooling throughout his childhood.
Rise to Fame
Early Activism:
Starting activism at a young age, age six, provided him with a platform and media attention. Speaking at international conferences, like the Rio+20 UN Summit, brought him global recognition. Filing a lawsuit against the US government for climate inaction further cemented his public profile.
Charismatic Leadership:
His powerful speeches and passionate advocacy resonated with audiences worldwide. His ability to connect with young people and inspire them to take action was crucial in building a global movement. His optimistic yet determined demeanor made him a relatable and inspiring figure.
Effective Communication:
Xiuhtezcatl leveraged various platforms such as conferences, interviews, and social media to spread his message effectively. His use of storytelling and personal narratives made his activism relatable and engaging. His collaboration with other artists and activists further amplified his reach and impact.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Family, Parents
Martinez was born to his parents Tamara Roske and Siri Martinez in Colorado. His mother Tamara, is a co-founder of the Earth Guardian Community Resource Center, an environmental education center in Maui, Hawaii. His father Siri, is a musician and composer.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Siblings
Martinez has two younger siblings, a sister named Tonantzin Roske-Martinez and a brother named Itzcuauhtli Roske-Martinez.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Girlfriend
Martinez has not gone public with his relationship, it is not publicly known whether he is married or in a relationship. His partner’s information will be updated as soon as the information is available.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Net Worth
Martinez’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million dollars. This includes his assets, money and income. His primary source of income is his career as an environmental activist and hip hop artist. Through his various sources of income, Xiuhtezcatl has been able to accumulate a good fortune but prefers to lead a modest lifestyle.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Measurements and Facts
Here are some interesting facts and body measurements you should know about Xiuhtezcatl.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Wiki
- Full Names: Xiuhtezcatl Roske-Martinez
- Popular As: Xiuhtezcatl
- Gender: Male
- Occupation / Profession: Environmental Activist and Hip Hop Artist
- Nationality: American
- Race / Ethnicity: Mixed
- Religion: Christianity
- Sexual Orientation: Straight
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Birthday
- Age / How Old?: 24 years old
- Zodiac Sign: Taurus
- Date of Birth: May 9, 2000
- Place of Birth: Boulder, Colorado, USA
- Birthday: May 9
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Body Measurements
- Body Measurements: Not Available
- Height / How Tall?: Average
- Weight: Moderate
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
- Hair Color: Dark Brown
- Shoe Size: Not Available
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Family and Relationship
- Father (Dad): Siri Martinez
- Mother: Tamara Roske
- Siblings (Brothers and Sisters): Itzcuauhtli Roske-Martinez, Tonantzin Roske-Martinez
- Marital Status: Single
- Wife/Spouse: Not Applicable
- Dating / Girlfriend: Single
- Children: Sons (None) Daughter(s) (None)
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Net Worth and Salary
- Net Worth: $1 Million – $5 Million
- Salary: Under Review
- Source of Income: Environmental Activist and Hip Hop Artist
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Climate Change
In 2015, Martinez and 21 other youths filed a lawsuit against the US Federal government, Juliana et al. The plaintiffs also included parties from the fossil fuel industry as defendants in the lawsuit but said parties were removed as defendants during pre-trial proceedings.
The lawsuit was launched while Obama was still in office, but in 2017 the plaintiffs substituted Trump’s name for that of the former president. In 2018, he and 13 other youths filed another lawsuit, this time against the state government of Washington.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Un Speech
There are moments in our lives that help shape the way we see our world. They shift our perspectives and help us understand our immense potential to define our future. The first 17 years of my life have led me to believe that everything happens for a reason.
Maybe that’s why I didn’t feel at all phased as I looked out into the audience of world leaders from more than 100 nations. I’d been given a stage at a pivotal moment in history, and I saw the world needed fresh perspectives if we wanted to make real progress on climate solutions.
We’ve spent the last 20 years pointing the finger and passing off responsibility. We are in a place where we can’t afford to wait for others to solve this problem for us. We have all the tools we need…the only thing missing is the will to help us get there.
My name is Xiuhtezcatl (pronounced ‘Shoe-Tez-Caht’). I am 17 years old, and I’m doing everything I can to fight for change in a collapsing world. In 2015, I had just finished middle school, and the state of the climate was descending into chaos.
That year, global temperatures were the hottest in recorded history, sea levels had reached an all-time high, and greenhouse gases had never been more present in our atmosphere. Climate scientists worldwide were alarmed by how much faster the ice caps were melting than previously projected.
In response, world leaders were preparing to meet in Paris for the most important conversation on climate in our history. This was the COP 21 United Nations Climate Change Conference, and we weren’t about to let our voices be excluded from this pivotal moment in history. In the climate movement, we talk a lot about tipping points, and we know that we’re running out of time to act before climate change becomes irreversible.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Ted Talk
He has given TED talks, as a teenager, and he was invited to speak before the United Nations on environmental policy.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Book
He wrote the book We Rise: The Earth Guardians Guide to Building a Movement That Restores the Planet – 2017.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Music
From his Album called We Rise – We Rise – The Earth Guardians Guide to Building a Movement That Restores the Planet (Unabridged), there are the following songs just to mention a few;
Songs
- Break Free
- One Day
- Indigenous Roots – We are all Indigenous to the Earth
- Broken
- Eyes On Me
- Light
- I Stand
- Boombox Warfare
- Constellations
- Sage Up
- Blu Ink
- Magic
Notable Travel, Events, and Experiences
Early Travel and Exposure:
- Traveling extensively with his family to various parts of the world, including Mexico, the Amazon rainforest, and the Arctic Circle. This exposure to diverse environments and cultures ignited his passion for environmental protection.
Activism and International Conferences:
- Speaking at the UN Rio+20 Earth Summit in 2012 at the age of 12. This marked his first major platform for raising awareness about climate change on a global stage.
- Addressing the UN Climate Change Conference (COP) on multiple occasions, including COP 21 in Paris and COP 22 in Marrakech. He has consistently used these platforms to urge world leaders to take decisive action on climate change.
- Participating in the World People’s Conference on Climate Change and the Rights of Mother Earth in Bolivia. This event brought together indigenous communities and activists from around the world to discuss climate justice and ecological rights.
Legal Action and Advocacy:
- Filing a lawsuit against the US government, “Juliana v. United States,” along with 20 other young plaintiffs in 2015. This landmark case argued that the government’s inaction on climate change violated the plaintiffs’ constitutional rights to life, liberty, and property.
- Testifying before the Oregon Supreme Court in support of the Clean Air Act. He used this platform to highlight the need for stricter regulations on air pollution.
- Organizing and participating in protests and demonstrations, such as the People’s Climate March and the Rise for Climate. These mass actions have played a crucial role in mobilizing public support for climate action.
Artistic Expression and Youth Leadership:
- Performing his music at major events, including the Global Citizen Festival and the Bioneers Conference. He uses his music to inspire young people and engage them in environmental activism.
- Serving as the Youth Director of Earth Guardians, a global youth-led environmental organization. He plays a key role in mentoring and empowering young activists around the world.
- Participating in various educational initiatives, such as speaking at schools and universities. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and experience with younger generations.
Media Recognition and Public Appearances:
- Being featured in major media outlets such as CNN, The New York Times, Rolling Stone, and The Guardian. This has significantly expanded his reach and influence.
- Participating in documentaries and films, such as “This Changes Everything” and “The Messenger.” These documentaries have played a crucial role in raising awareness about climate change and the work of young activists.
- Being awarded numerous prizes and accolades, including the MTV EMA for Generation Change, the UN Champion of the Earth Award, and the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award. These recognitions have solidified his status as a leading voice in the fight for climate justice.
Future Aspirations and Goals
Amplifying the Voice of Youth:
- Continuing to empower and mobilize young people around the world to take action on climate change.
- Building a global movement of young leaders who are demanding a just and sustainable future.
- Creating platforms for young voices to be heard, such as through Earth Guardians and other youth-led initiatives.
Holding Governments Accountable:
- Pushing for stricter climate policies and regulations that are based on science and justice.
- Holding governments accountable for their inaction on climate change and demanding immediate action.
- Utilizing legal strategies, like the “Juliana v. United States” lawsuit, to ensure that governments fulfill their obligations to protect the environment.
Promoting Systemic Change:
- Advocating for a transition to a green economy that is based on renewable energy and sustainable practices.
- Addressing the root causes of climate change, such as systemic inequality and environmental racism.
- Building a future where everyone has access to clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment.
Inspiring Hope and Action:
- Continuing to use his music and storytelling to inspire people and motivate them to take action.
- Sharing his message of hope and resilience in the face of climate crisis.
- Building a sense of community and shared responsibility for the future of our planet.
Personal Growth and Development:
- Continuing to learn and grow as an activist, artist, and leader.
- Developing his skills in communication, advocacy, and strategic thinking.
- Seeking mentorship from experienced individuals and organizations.
Social Impact: Philanthropic, Charitable and Community Involvement
Philanthropic Efforts:
- Earth Guardians: As a co-founder and Youth Director, Xiuhtezcatl actively leads the organization’s fundraising efforts to support their global initiatives, including youth empowerment programs, legal action against climate inaction, and educational projects.
- Amazon Watch: Xiuhtezcatl serves on the board of Amazon Watch, an organization dedicated to protecting the Amazon rainforest and the rights of its indigenous communities.
- Greenpeace: Xiuhtezcatl has collaborated with Greenpeace on various campaigns, including raising awareness about deforestation and promoting renewable energy solutions.
Charitable Work:
- The Pollination Project: Xiuhtezcatl supports this organization’s work in planting millions of trees to combat climate change and restore degraded ecosystems.
- Standing Rock Sioux Tribe: Xiuhtezcatl actively participated in the #NoDAPL movement, supporting the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe’s fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline construction.
- Indigenous Environmental Network: Xiuhtezcatl collaborates with this network to amplify the voices and perspectives of indigenous communities on environmental issues.
Community Involvement:
- Earth Guardians Local Circles: Xiuhtezcatl actively participates in and encourages the creation of local Earth Guardians chapters worldwide, fostering community engagement and activism.
- Environmental Education Initiatives: Xiuhtezcatl frequently speaks at schools, universities, and community events, educating youth and the public about climate change and environmental justice.
- Mentorship and Leadership Programs: Xiuhtezcatl mentors and empowers young activists through various workshops and training programs, fostering the next generation of environmental leaders.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Awards Accomplishments and Achievements
Awards:
- MTV Europe Music Award for Generation Change (2015)
- UN Champion of the Earth (2017)
- Forbes 30 Under 30 (2016)
- Time 100 Next List (2015)
- Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award (2013)
- Pride Uganda Award (2019)
- MIT Climate CoLab (2013)
Accomplishments:
- Co-founded Earth Guardians, a youth-led environmental organization, at the age of 9.
- Led the “Juliana v. United States” lawsuit against the US government for failing to address climate change.
- Spoke at numerous international conferences and events, including the UN Climate Change Conference and the World People’s Conference on Climate Change.
- Featured in major media outlets such as CNN, The New York Times, and Rolling Stone.
- Published a book titled “We Rise: The Earth Guardians Guide to Building a Movement that Restores the Planet.”
- Released music using his platform to raise awareness about environmental issues.
- Mobilized and organized protests, campaigns, and other initiatives through social media.
Achievements:
- Inspired and empowered millions of young people around the world to take action on climate change.
- Helped to raise awareness about the urgency of addressing climate change.
- Contributed significantly to building a global movement for environmental justice.
- Used his voice to advocate for policy changes and hold governments accountable.
- Became a role model for young activists around the world.
Legacy
Elevating Youth Activism:
- Xiuhtezcatl’s early engagement in activism inspired countless young people to take action on climate change and environmental issues.
- He demonstrated the power of youth voices and led by example, empowering others to believe their actions can make a difference.
- He established Earth Guardians, a global platform for young activists to connect, share resources, and amplify their collective impact.
Holding Governments Accountable:
- Xiuhtezcatl played a crucial role in the “Juliana v. United States” lawsuit, challenging government inaction on climate change.
- His efforts raised awareness about the legal consequences of climate inaction and set a precedent for future legal action.
- He consistently holds governments accountable for their environmental policies and demands more ambitious action to address the climate crisis.
Promoting Systemic Change:
- Xiuhtezcatl advocates for systemic changes that address the root causes of climate change, including economic inequality and environmental racism.
- He promotes a transition to a green economy that prioritizes renewable energy and sustainable practices.
- He challenges the status quo and inspires people to create a more just and sustainable future for all.
Inspiring Hope and Action:
- Xiuhtezcatl’s powerful speeches, music, and storytelling inspire hope and resilience in the face of climate challenges.
- He motivates individuals and communities to take action and become part of the solution to climate change.
- He fosters a sense of shared responsibility and empowers people to believe in their collective ability to create a better future.
Pioneering a New Era of Environmental Activism:
- Xiuhtezcatl embodies a new generation of environmental activists who are diverse, tech-savvy, and unafraid to challenge the status quo.
- He utilizes social media and other digital platforms to connect with a global audience and mobilize mass action.
- He inspires others to be creative and innovative in their approach to environmental activism, paving the way for future generations of changemakers.
Hobbies and Interests
Creative Expression:
- Music: Xiuhtezcatl is a talented hip-hop artist who uses his music as a platform to raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire action.
- Writing: Xiuhtezcatl is the author of the book “We Rise: The Earth Guardians Guide to Building a Movement that Restores the Planet.” He also enjoys writing poetry and other forms of creative expression.
- Public Speaking: Xiuhtezcatl is a skilled speaker who has delivered powerful speeches at major events such as the UN Climate Change Conference and the World People’s Conference on Climate Change.
Outdoor Activities:
- Hiking: Xiuhtezcatl enjoys spending time in nature and has hiked in various locations around the world, including the Amazon rainforest and the Arctic Circle.
- Surfing: Xiuhtezcatl is an avid surfer and enjoys catching waves whenever he gets the chance.
- Camping: Xiuhtezcatl appreciates the opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature through camping trips.
Cultural Exploration:
- Learning new languages: Xiuhtezcatl is fluent in both English and Spanish and is interested in learning other languages.
- Traveling: Xiuhtezcatl has traveled extensively throughout the world and enjoys experiencing different cultures and ways of life.
- Meeting new people: Xiuhtezcatl is a social person who enjoys connecting with people from different backgrounds and learning about their perspectives.
Personal Beliefs
Environmentalism:
- Urgency of Climate Action: Xiuhtezcatl believes climate change is an existential threat requiring immediate and drastic action. He advocates for systemic change and holds governments accountable for their environmental policies.
- Interconnectedness of Nature: He emphasizes the profound connection between humans and the natural world. He believes environmental degradation is a violation of human rights and future generations’ well-being.
- Indigenous Knowledge: He champions the wisdom and sustainability practices of indigenous communities, advocating for their inclusion in environmental solutions.
Social Justice:
- Equality and Equity: Xiuhtezcatl believes in a world where everyone has equal access to clean air, water, and a healthy environment. He challenges environmental racism and advocates for social justice alongside climate action.
- Intergenerational Equity: He fights for a future where young generations inherit a healthy planet. He believes current decision-making must prioritize the well-being of future generations.
- Empowering Youth: He believes young people have the power to create change. He empowers youth through Earth Guardians and other initiatives to take action and become leaders in the environmental movement.
Personal Growth and Transformation:
- Lifelong Learning: Xiuhtezcatl emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and growth. He encourages others to challenge assumptions and expand their understanding of the world.
- Resilience and Hope: Despite the urgency of climate challenges, Xiuhtezcatl maintains a message of hope and resilience. He believes in the potential for positive change and encourages others to remain optimistic.
- Personal Responsibility: He encourages individual action and reflection on personal choices that contribute to environmental problems. He advocates for conscious consumerism and sustainable living practices.
Spiritual Connection:
- Respect for Nature: Xiuhtezcatl’s Aztec heritage influences his deep respect for nature and its sacredness. He believes humans have a responsibility to protect and preserve the natural world.
- Interconnectedness of All Beings: He views all living things as interconnected and interdependent. He promotes compassion and respect for all living creatures.
- Finding Meaning and Purpose: Xiuhtezcatl believes that working towards environmental solutions can provide individuals and communities with a sense of purpose and meaning in life.
Quotes
Final Thoughts
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez is an undeniable force to be reckoned with. His unwavering commitment to environmental activism and social justice, combined with his talent, intelligence, and charismatic leadership, have propelled him to become a global icon for young people and a powerful voice demanding change.
Xiuhtezcatl Martinez Contacts
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