This post was published originally on LinkedIn on September 29, 2021.
My commitment to being a tireless champion for equity and justice began 21 years ago today.
On September 29, 2000, my father died of AIDS.
He taught me a lot before he died, but I didn't fully appreciate everything until after, when I started doing my own work.
When I started learning about systems of oppression and marginalization and discrimination.
When I started unpacking how I contributed to the perpetuation of those systems.
When I decided that I no longer wanted to be that kind of contributor.
When I determined that I would contribute not only to the struggle for equity and justice, but for love and connection and agency and liberation and healing.
That I would strive to recognize the humanity in everyone.
That I would always fight for what's right.
That I would push through my discomfort, absorb criticism, reflect on my mistakes, and resolve to continually do better and continually be better.
I received this text from partner this morning:
"Thinking about your dad today. He’d be so proud of all you’re doing. Love you."
I read it. Then I broke down and cried for five minutes.
Then I wiped my face, took a few deep breaths, got myself together, and facilitated a DEI workshop.
Because I know that at least one person on that Zoom screen needed to hear what I had to say.