AU '21: Amnesty totally popped off this quarter! I felt empowered in my role, in my ability to create a platform for others, and we were able to accomplish so much. We designed a completely new curriculum on Climate Justice as a Human Rights Issue, ran the Afghani Refugee Clothing Drive, hosted Write 4 Rights 2021 with AIUW, as well as Postcards for Climate Justice. With so many special moments this quarter, I wanted to note at least one: In attendance at W4R, we had two international students from a country where an event like this would be considered criminal, and initially they were very hesitant to participate, as is understandable. But by the end of the event they were comfortably writing letters, and really appreciated the empowerment that came with being able to use their voice in this manner. I thought it was very powerful that we created a platform where that engagement was possible, and I think it really speaks to the end goals of my work with Amnesty.
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WI '22: Tango is a promise kept. It was so much more than I ever anticipated. I've been dancing salsa, but this was something else entirely: an exercise in negotiating an internal world of acceptance, comfort, and pleasure with another person. There's so much that is understood viscerally and with the eyes; verbal articulation is left as a decadent accessory. I'm so grateful for the relations that I formed in tango. It was so sad to leave that space we'd created for one another behind, but also hopeful in the sense that we'd create those spaces elsewhere for others. I found a peace in myself, I learned to tune into my desires and communicate them, and refined the capacity to invite another to do so. I initiated, I interpreted, I danced, we danced. It was beautiful.
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SP '22: In the past 2 months or so, I've started anew. A new job, a new city, and being back home feels like a refuge from the bubble of Day 1. Reflecting on this time in my life, learning and teaching salsa, I am in awe of myself. I was a student in the department of dance. I was a salsa instructor. I feel far removed from these roles, from that part of myself. Grounded, passionate, joyful, open. I loved this part of my life. It was unplanned for, and I met it with full embrace. I suppose it settles me, reminds me of my capacity to grow. Right now, I'm learning to crawl. I've figured out where the coffee machine is, the best night at Alberto's, and that a slice of blueberry chiffon from Paris Baguette can work wonders. I suppose that's a good start. I'll find my way again.
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