Michelle Tremillo to Transition from Co-Executive Director Role After 16 Years of Building Power with Texas Organizing Project

Tremillo helped grow TOP into a political powerhouse rooted in Black & Latino communities; leadership transition to be announced later in June

Michelle Tremillo, Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director of the Texas Organizing Project (TOP), announced this past Friday that she will transition from TOP at the end of 2025 after 16 years of building one of the country’s most effective grassroots political organizations.

“TOP was founded to do what others said wasn’t possible: build a statewide powerhouse rooted in community, strategy, and justice. And we did,” Tremillo said. “I feel immense pride in what we’ve accomplished, and deep excitement for what comes next.”

Since co-founding TOP in 2009, the organization has become a leading force for building Black and Latino political power through strategic, community-rooted organizing and electoral engagement. Under Tremillo’s tenure, TOP developed the largest Black voter engagement program and the largest in-person Latino voter engagement program in Texas.

“We built our own infrastructure to win at the local level,” Tremillo explained. “Through our year-round organizing campaigns, we created systems that ensure the people most impacted by injustice have real decision-making power.”

TOP’s organizing has delivered transformative wins for working-class Black and Latino Texans, such as successfully pushing for enhanced library cards to be recognized as valid forms of identification in cities including San Antonio, Dallas, and Houston, expanding access to public services for more than 10 million Texans; securing tens of millions of dollars for disaster recovery, home repair, and rent relief, advancing the belief that housing is a human right; and built a Black and Latino-led political force that has reached more than five million voters and helped elect dozens of progressive champions, from district attorneys, to mayors, to members of Congress.

“We reimagined what people-power could look like in Texas,” Tremillo said. “It wasn’t about empire-building. It was about building an ecosystem of power for Texas that will outlast any individual leader.”

Tremillo restructured TOP’s internal culture around transparency and inclusion, co-creating structures like County Leadership Teams to institutionalize member-led decision-making and establishing leadership pipelines that elevated local voices from member to organizer to movement leader.

“Michelle’s leadership has always been about the people,” said Dr. Doshie Piper, Maria Victoria de la Cruz, and Debra Walker, Co-Presidents of TOP and TOPEF (Texas Organizing Project Education Fund) Boards. “She co-founded a movement that reflects the power, brilliance, and resilience of Black and Latino Texans.”

Elected Leaders Praise Tremillo’s Impact

“Texas politics looks different today because of Michelle and TOP,” said San Antonio City Councilmember Jalen McKee Rodriguez. In a state where the odds are steep, she’s built a strategy and an organization that has made real power possible for Black and Latino communities. Her legacy lives in the leaders she’s developed, the systems she’s transformed, and the wins that once felt out of reach.”

“Michelle doesn’t just lead, she builds,” said Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo. She built infrastructure where none existed, mentored a generation of organizers, and refused to settle for symbolic change. The foundation she laid will continue shifting power in Texas long after her tenure ends.”

“Michelle Tremillo has helped shape Texas into a place where people, not corporations or political insiders, hold power,” said Congressman Joaquin Castro. “She didn’t just fight for a seat at the table; she built a new table and made sure it was led by our communities. She’s changed the conversation, and the consequences of that will ripple for decades.”

TOP’s Next Chapter 

TOP’s Board of Directors will announce the next phase of leadership in the coming weeks. The transition, years in the making, reflects a deliberate commitment to sustainability and shared power.

“Michelle has set the bar for what transformative leadership looks like,” said Brianna Brown, Co-Executive Director of TOP. “She’s led with integrity, humility, and an unwavering belief in the power of our people. It’s been a privilege to lead alongside her as we’ve built an organization grounded in shared values and real results.”

“This organization has never been about one person,” Tremillo concluded. “We’ve built something enduring, an ensemble of brilliant, grounded, and relentless people who are ready to take TOP into its next era.”

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About Texas Organizing Project:
TOP organizes Black and Latino communities in Dallas, Harris, Bexar, and Fort Bend counties with the goal of transforming Texas into a state where working people of color have the power and representation they deserve. For more information, visit organizetexas.org.

San Antonio community and labor groups power Gina Ortiz Jones to victory in San Antonio

The following statement is from Dr. Doshie Piper, Board Co-President of Texas Organizing Project (TOP), in response to the group helping Gina Ortiz Jones win election as the next mayor of San Antonio:

“San Antonio voters made clear tonight they are hungry for people-powered progressive leadership at City Hall.

“They also said no to Gov. Greg Abbott and his big dollar PACs that pumped fear-mongering into this race. Right-wing groups spent over $2.1 million dollars to prop up their candidate, who was ultimately defeated. This once again shows how at the end of the day, it’s meaningful door-to-door conversations with voters that wins elections.

“In the span of three weeks, TOP PAC’s voter engagement program worked in conjunction with a roster of community and labor allies to make over 28,000 door knocks across San Antonio — reaching out to predominantly Black and Latino households that too often are ignored by traditional political campaigns. This election win would not have been possible without the hard work of our partners ACT4SA Action PAC, AFSCME San Antonio Local 2021, UNITE HERE Local 23, Planned Parenthood Texas Votes, San Antonio Alliance, LIUNA Local 1095, and Texas Majority PAC.

“Understanding how much is on the line for San Antonians this election — from protecting our rights, to improving neighborhood infrastructure, to making housing and childcare more affordable — TOP PAC is in the streets of working Black and Latino neighborhoods pushing for the political and policy shifts our communities deserve.”

“We are ecstatic about Gina Ortiz Jones’s election, and look forward to further strengthening our working relationship with her to address the priorities of working-class San Antonio families.”

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About Texas Organizing Project PAC:
Texas Organizing Project (TOP) PAC runs the largest, independent get-out-the-vote political programs in Texas, focusing on expanding the electorate of color, with an emphasis on turning out Black and Latino voters. To date, TOP PAC has mobilized hundreds of thousands of voters across the state with the aim of building a reflective democracy–one that looks like us and shares our values.

Texas Organizing Project Condemns Tarrant County Redistricting as Racial Gerrymandering

FORT WORTH, TX — What happened yesterday in Tarrant County was nothing short of a power grab. With a 3-2 vote, the Commissioners Court approved a redistricting map that strips Black and Latino communities in Precinct 2 of their voice and their power.

This mid-decade redraw, with no new census data and no public mandate, is a calculated act of racial gerrymandering. It tears apart neighborhoods that have consistently come together to elect candidates who reflect their values. It carves out economic hubs like Globe Life Field and downtown Fort Worth, gutting the heart of our political and economic strength.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t just partisan politics, it’s systemic racism doing what it always has. But we see it, we name it, and we’ll fight back.

Tarrant County Judge Tim O’Hare has openly admitted in the past that this redistricting is about securing Republican control, stating, “The mission is to get three Republican commissioners” on the court. This confession lays bare the true intent: to dilute the voting power of communities of color for partisan gain.

This isn’t just unethical; it’s illegal. The Voting Rights Act and the 14th Amendment were created to stop exactly this kind of racial discrimination. We won’t sit back while our communities are carved up and silenced.

We are fighting back.

“This map is an insult to the voters of Precinct 2. It’s a deliberate attempt to dilute the voices of Black and Latino communities who have fought hard to be heard. We will not be erased. I stand with our residents, with our movement, and with every legal and moral tool we have to fight this injustice.” — Commissioner Alisa Simmons, Tarrant County Precinct 2

The Texas Organizing Project stands in unwavering solidarity with Commissioner Alisa Simmons, Congressman Marc Veasey, and the hundreds of Tarrant County residents who’ve raised their voices against this injustice.

“When they silence our voices at the ballot box, they’re trying to silence our dignity, our demands, and our dreams,” said Brianna Brown, Co-Executive Director of Texas Organizing Project. “This is a direct assault on the political power of Black and Latino communities who have fought too long and too hard to be pushed aside. But let me be clear, we are not going anywhere. Our fight for justice, fairness, and representation will continue with more resolve and more unity than ever before.”

This fight is far from over.

Our communities are resilient, and our movement is growing. We will not be deterred by racist tactics or political games. We will continue to fight for fair representation, for our voices to be heard, and for a Texas that truly represents all its people.

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About Texas Organizing Project:
TOP organizes Black and Latino communities in Dallas, Harris, Bexar, and Fort Bend counties with the goal of transforming Texas into a state where working people of color have the power and representation they deserve. For more information, visit organizetexas.org.

TOP PAC Endorses Gina Ortiz Jones for San Antonio Mayor

San Antonio residents deserve a solution-oriented leader who will look out for them

Today, Texas Organizing Project (TOP) PAC announced its endorsement of Gina Ortiz Jones for San Antonio Mayor.

Dr. Doshie Piper, TOP Board Co-President based in San Antonio, offered the following statement:

“At TOP, we organize to improve the lives of working Texas families each and every day. We know that WHO is in office is critical to our ability to achieve our vision for racial and economic justice.

“Our elected officials have the power to pass policies that either lift us up or set us back. So every election is important, and getting out the vote is crucial to ensuring that our elected officials are accountable to US.

“That’s why TOP is ready to fight for and lift up Gina Ortiz Jones, a proven community leader, in this pivotal San Antonio mayoral runoff.”

Elizabeth Davila, TOP member from San Antonio added:

“San Antonians deserve a mayor who will stand side by side with us and respect the rights of ALL communities — no matter our age, race, income level, or which ZIP Code we’re from.

“We need a mayor who will put a stop to injustices and push for humane solutions to issues in our neighborhoods.

“Gina Ortiz Jones understands what matters to our city’s working families, and she is committed to championing our priorities — from protecting our rights, to making housing and childcare more affordable, to fighting for good-paying jobs with benefits.”

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About Texas Organizing Project PAC:

Texas Organizing Project (TOP) PAC runs the largest, independent get-out-the-vote political programs in Texas, focusing on expanding the electorate of color, with an emphasis on turning out Black and Latino voters. To date, TOP PAC has mobilized hundreds of thousands of voters across the state with the aim of building a reflective democracy–one that looks like us and shares our values. 

TOP statement on the signing of Texas school voucher bill SB2

The following statement is from Brianna Brown, Co-Executive Director of Texas Organizing Project (TOP), in response to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signing into law SB2, school voucher legislation that would divert public funds away from public schools:

“Greg Abbott’s school voucher scam isn’t about improving student outcomes; it’s about lining the pockets of his campaign donors and dismantling public education in our state.

Abbott’s billionaire buddy Jeff Yass bankrolled this legislative scheme at the expense of Texas kids, parents, and teachers.

“Speaking as a mother who sends her kids to public schools, SB2’s passage once more proves our governor will always carry water for his wealthy backers before ever passing meaningful policy to benefit working Texans families.

“Are we surprised? Of course not. Are we infuriated? Absolutely.

“Texas taxpayer dollars should go to PUBLIC schools and institutions – NOT private and parochial schools.”

Dr. Doshie Piper, TOP Board Co-President, added:

Abbott couldn’t care less about the unpopularity of his school voucher scam. His crusade for years, our governor spent millions bullying Texas GOP legislators into submission to pass it.  

“Under the guise of ‘school choice’ – which Texas already has – Abbott pushed vouchers like a snake oil salesman, casting them as a magic elixir to help students and families.

“In reality, he sold the public a slick, right-wing think-tank repackaging of what school vouchers were proposed decades ago for – to perpetuate racial and economic segregation in our schools. 

“Working with pro-public education allies, TOP stands ready to make sure Abbott and lawmakers who supported his scam hear from us at the ballot box and feel the political consequences of their cowardice.”

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About Texas Organizing Project:

TOP organizes Black and Latino communities in Dallas, Harris, Bexar, and Fort Bend counties with the goal of transforming Texas into a state where working people of color have the power and representation they deserve. For more information, visit organizetexas.org.

TOP statement on the passing of Congressman Sylvester Turner

The following statement is from Dr. Doshie Piper, Board Co-President of Texas Organizing Project (TOP), born and raised in Houston, in reaction to the sudden passing of Congressman Sylvester Turner:

“As a champion for Houstonians for decades, the staff and members of Texas Organizing Project are saddened to hear of the passing of Congressman Sylvester Turner.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all impacted by his more than 35 years of public service to Houston and our state as a whole.”

Michelle Tremillo, TOP Co-Executive Director added:

“From the Texas House, to City Hall, to the halls of Congress, Sylvester Turner fought day in and day out for the fundamental rights of all of his constituents and fellow Texans.

“The Congressman’s advocacy for voting rights, affordable housing, healthcare access, and climate justice has positively transformed our Houston communities, and his legacy will be felt by future generations.”

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About Texas Organizing Project:

TOP organizes Black and Latino communities in Dallas, Harris, Bexar, and Fort Bend counties with the goal of transforming Texas into a state where working people of color have the power and representation they deserve. For more information, visit organizetexas.org.

TOP celebrates Women’s History Month

The following statement is from Brianna Brown, Texas Organizing Project (TOP) Co-Executive Director on the organization celebrating the foundational role of women, especially Black and Latina women, this Women’s History Month:

Women inspire, women lead, and women manifest. We have been the backbone of every movement for societal progress over the course of history.

“Founded and led by women, TOP every day lifts up the legacies of freedom-fighting women, especially Black and Latina women, whose vision and commitment to justice move us closer to our North Star of full liberation — women like Jovita Ida and Fannie Lou Hamer.

“We’re here to reimagine what is possible, transform the world, win a better future for ourselves and our loved ones, and we’re not stopping.”

Mary Guzman, TOP Education Fund board member, added:

“No amount of petty, backwards policy will hold us back from our collective desire as women to pour into our families, our communities, and lead our best lives.

“Each and every one of us — regardless of the color of skin, the language we speak, or where we call home —  has the power to be a catalyst for groundbreaking change, and it is our organizing that empowers new generations of women to contribute in powerful ways and fully realize their dreams.”

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About Texas Organizing Project

TOP organizes Black and Latino communities in Dallas, Harris, Bexar, and Fort Bend counties with the goal of transforming Texas into a state where working people of color have the power and representation they deserve. For more information, visit organizetexas.org.

BlackTOP commemorates Black History Month

The following is a statement from Brianna Brown, Co-Executive Director of Texas Organizing Project (TOP), on BlackTOP’s observance of Black History Month this year:

“Fearless innovators and change-makers. It’s who we inherently are as Black Americans, and no executive order or policy change will ever strip us of that fact. This Black History Month, we once again affirm how Black communities have been the cornerstone of our nation’s rise, and how our excellence continues to drive its prosperity. 

“With the twice-impeached White House occupant ridiculously claiming that DEI is a threat to our country, it’s more important than ever that we set the record straight and call out this bigotry by centering Black voices and recognizing our vast contributions to this country — a country our ancestors built.”

“BlackTOP’s work is rooted in building Black and Latino power by carving out an unapologetic Black lane that grounds us in our history — merging our imaginations with strategy to manifest our dreams.”

“No matter the powers we are up against, organizing will always be our vehicle for change, with collective liberation forever being our primary objective.

Synnachia McQueen, TOP County Leadership Team member in Houston, added:

“We will not allow the “victors” of the past or present try to rewrite OUR history and omit the contributions of OUR communities. 

“This Black History Month, we honor our ancestors, acknowledge the present, and continue our tireless work toward creating a future where race, age, gender, and class are no longer barriers to justice and our ability to thrive.

“Building a Texas and United States where freedom and prosperity are accessible to all is up to us — and through solidarity we will achieve it.”

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About BlackTOP

BlackTOP was built on the premise that the future of Texas rests in organizing Black folks across the state and getting US to the polls. With offices in Houston, Dallas and San Antonio, BlackTOP launched canvassing programs across multiple Texas counties to talk to, organize, and mobilize Black voters ahead of the 2022 election. For more information, visit blacktoptexas.org.

TOP: “To honor Dr. King’s legacy entails countering an agenda of division with an audacious and tangible manifesto of hope”

The following is a statement from Brianna Brown, Co-Executive Director of Texas Organizing Project (TOP), on the juxtaposition of this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday:

“Texas Organizing Project today and every day channels the spirit of freedom-fighters like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – an indomitable, justice-seeking giant we proudly stand on the shoulders of.

“We must constantly build dikes of courage to hold back the flood of fear,” he stated – words that apply to the tenuous environment our movement finds itself in today, as millions in this country committed to a vision where all can thrive – no matter our age, race, faith, or gender – grapple with uncertainty and search for new ways to drive change for the common good.

“As TOP’s organizing evolves and takes new shape, our values remain constant. Our North Star is collective liberation. This is how we will lead, continue to positively impact lives, and win.”

Dr. Doshie Piper, TOP board co-president, added:

“No incoming administration of self-serving billionaires will control our well-being and dictate how we choose to lead our lives.

“To honor Dr. King’s legacy entails countering an agenda of division with an audacious and tangible manifesto of hope.

“It also means not cowering in the face of adversity, as we roll up our sleeves to fight the damaging policies and ideology of a cruel, right-wing extremist agenda”. 

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About Texas Organizing Project

TOP organizes Black and Latino communities in Dallas, Harris, Bexar, and Fort Bend counties with the goal of transforming Texas into a state where working people of color have the power and representation they deserve. For more information, visit organizetexas.org.

TOP statement on four-year mark of MAGA white nationalist attack on U.S. Capitol

The following statement is from Brianna Brown, Co-Executive Director of Texas Organizing Project (TOP), on the fourth anniversary of Donald Trump fomenting deadly violence at our nation’s Capitol:

“No court decision or amount of gaslighting will erase what is undeniable fact – that on January 6, 2021, Donald Trump incited white nationalist violence at the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.

“Four years after this deadly attack, it remains an infuriating national travesty of accountability and justice that this twice-impeached grifter has yet to feel the full legal weight of his actions that day, and thanks to his ultra-conservative Supreme Court, he likely never will.

“It is disgusting, though in no way shocking, to see today’s Republican Party – which Trump controls in the palm of his hand – continue to downplay the horrific display of white supremacy we witnessed.

“January 6, 2021, wasn’t the start of Trump’s dangerous attacks on our democracy, and it won’t be the last.

“Now back in the Oval Office, there is no doubt Trump will wield every bit of his power to dismantle democratic processes for his own benefit, while weaponizing the rule of law to attack any communities who he and his MAGA loyalists deem as threats to their divisive agenda – particularly Black and Latino communities.

“TOP’s commitment to building real political power in Texas remains steadfast. Donald Trump’s return to power only strengthens our resolve to fight even harder for the Black and Latino Texans who fuel our state.

“Regardless of race, income, gender, preferred language, or ZIP Code, all who call our country home deserve representation from elected leaders who will fight to fulfill the promise of our democracy, not destroy it.”

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About Texas Organizing Project
TOP organizes Black and Latino communities in Dallas, Harris, Bexar, and Fort Bend counties with the goal of transforming Texas into a state where working people of color have the power and representation they deserve. For more information, visit organizetexas.org.