Food For Thought

An Ally, as defined in this video is "a person who wants to fight for the equality of a marginalized group that they are not a part of". Just because one is not a member of community does not mean that you can not support it. Most groups rely on Allies in their fight for equality. If this term does not apply to you in any form, that okay but if you do identify as an Ally then I would recommend watching this video. It discusses the 5 tips for being an Ally. Its great to say that you support and want to help but what comes next? This video discusses privilege, proper education, when to speak up and when to stay quiet and don't be afraid to apologize. As long as your goal is to make a positive impact, then just listen and apologize for your slip ups and get back to helping. Remember Ally is a VERB! You need to act to be an Ally.

Today, our lovely Trip Coordinator Kayla lead a reflection about Clint Smith's The Danger of Silence. He discussed through a format similar to spoken word, how important it is to use your voice and stand up for what you believe in. We must decide if we are the kind of person who uses their voice or remain in silence. What do you think? Will you remain Silent?

Our Trip Coordinators Karen and Julian discussed with the rest of our board this TED talk about "We're all hiding something". Ash Beckham discussed how we all have to have our "coming out of the closet" moments and that doesn't just relate to LGBT issues. We all have to have difficult conversation in life and the Hard is Hard no matter the subject. We shouldn't compare each other's pain but rather provide courage and support because everyone goes through hard time and every once in a while we have to come out of the closet.