Rebecca Godeski Merton graduated from Harvard College, where she focused her studies on the history of mental health depoliticization and transinstitutionalization, culminating in a senior thesis on this subject. She expanded her understanding of the social determinants of mental health during a postgraduate fellowship and by completing a certificate program at the Universidad de Buenos Aires.
Before joining The Nieves Law Firm, Rebecca worked as a senior strategist at Freedom for Immigrants, an abolitionist nonprofit dedicated to advocating for individuals detained by ICE. In this role, she collaborated closely with those affected, documenting abuses and supporting organizing efforts. Rebecca’s professional background also includes work in disability justice litigation, anti-eviction advocacy, youth-led development, and library services—all of which contribute to her comprehensive approach to anticarceral and decriminalization efforts.
Today, Rebecca serves as a Legal Secretary at The Nieves Law Firm, driven by a deep commitment to justice and liberation for marginalized communities. She brings a nuanced perspective shaped by her understanding of systemic issues within the legal system and her dedication to advocating alongside criminalized individuals.
Currently residing on Lisjan Ohlone land in Huchiun, Rebecca is grateful to live in community with loved ones and give Shuumi. In her spare time, she supports community-led anticarceral initiatives, engages in collective learning alongside a kindergartener, and tends to a neighborhood garden of tomatoes and marigolds.
