District/College: Retired South Lane School District
Job Assignment/Position: Substitute Teacher
Local Association: South Lane Education Association Current: OEA-Retired
Years of Educator Experience: 33 years
What are three ways you have actively elevated equity?
- Kept SLSD's school board abreast of equity trainings available for them to attend (Always had someone from South Lane at the OEA symposium while I was local president).
- I have served two four-year terms on CORE (EMAC) representing American Indian/Alaskan Native.
- Advisor for schoolwide Youth for Equity club where we focused on learning about historically marginalized groups through their music, food and stories.
- I maintain the local associations Facebook page making sure to post racial equity/social justice learning opportunities.
- Member of the Strategic Action Task Force including focusing on getting the Engage findings out to members.
- E-Sparkie Cohort #2
What is your equity stance?
I believe systemic and institutional inequities, especially in matters of race, remain significant barriers for people and communities working to reach their full potential. I believe in the dignity and humanity of all people and envision a world where society and its systems (education, employment, health care, etc.) are just, fair, and inclusive. I make the commitment to participate in efforts to initiate the long overdue changes that will bring the elimination of the inequities that have plagued society for far too long. I stand in solidarity with BLM and other groups who strive for a healthy and prosperous society that promotes equitable access and opportunity for all. I believe as Dr. King Jr said, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."
What is your favorite social justice quote?
If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.
-Bishop Desmond Tutu
Can you share one equity focused resource or student read that you recommend?
Harbor Me by Jacqueline Woodson is meant for upper elementary/Middle school age students but is a great model for adults. (For Adults: Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America by Ibram X. Kendi.)