Putting up my Hand – Centre for Social Innovation

My classmates validated and valued my leadership. They chose to be allies. I became Valedictorian of my class. Opportunities began presenting themselves, and, right now, I feel such an abundance. It only took my 40 years of life, a lot of grit and support, and I still don’t think I deserve it. It’s still hard to put up my hand.

This is a long story, with – right now, at least – a happy ending. I know there are people with similar stories who have not been given the opportunities I have, whose stories don’t end happily. Not everyone has choice, the ability to pursue higher education, or even the luxury of self-reflection. I know intersectionality and privilege come in many forms; this is my story.

What I want to convey is that, when you’re working or interacting with someone, a colleague, a classmate, a new acquaintance, take time to understand their context. 

Recognize how another person shows up is different from how you show up. These differences signify the privilege. How will you use yours?

As a woman of colour I’m asking you to listen. Educate yourself without burdening us. Use your privilege to stand up for us and help lift us up. My hope is that you will empathize and validate our identities so we can spend more time being ourselves, and less time as the two-dimensional characters we have been playing to fit in. 

What if this were all possible, and every racialized person felt supported, validated, valued? If we truly embraced cultural differences, equity, and diversity in our communities and at work, more of us would have the opportunity to use our skills and experiences to the fullest, to be unleashed, to be ourselves, to be truly outspoken and heard, to feel worthy, to be recognized, to put up our hand.