[Commitments]
I am a values-driven professional who brings an intersectional lens to each relationship and project. I live at the intersection of multiple marginalized identities and have encountered many of the limitations inequity begets. These identities—female, queer, feminist, Jewish, disabled, survivor—have shaped my experiences and perspective.
In addition to a personal affinity for mission work, these are the values that guide my work and my approach.
People-First
My consultancy aims to be heart- and human-centered and a relational practice where work is thoughtful, collaborative, and achievable. I believe the principles of a trauma-informed* approach improve every relationship, contribute to greater inclusion, and create better outcomes.
There is also the notion of people-first language** from disability activists. It is a humanizing approach to language whose premise can apply far beyond the field of disability justice, or even language. It suggests we refer to people who are disabled, first as individuals, then by a diagnosis.
This logic applies just as well to how we talk about folks experiencing houselessness (rather than The Homeless). See? More humane.
Reciprocity
Reciprocity is about being in relationship with one another, is fundamental to healthy communities, and foundational to my work. In a transactional world, I get to partner and collaborate with individuals and organizations who are ready to meet and be met with dignity, appreciation, and mutuality through a strengths-based approach.
I like to think of collaboration as the weft of our social fabric, and reciprocity as the warp—as it increases, so does the strength of our communities. It is a non-hierarchal relationship that is mutually beneficial and implies care and respect.
I found have the most rewarding relationships and impactful projects ones that create and nurture reciprocity.
Justice
Advancing social justice is my North Star and I believe in an intersectional approach and solidarity. “Is it just?” is a question that is often top of mind, leading to inquiry about the accessibility and inclusion of spaces, communications, and projects.
I am regularly engaged with listening, reading, and learning which deepens my understanding of other perspectives, and how to speak, work, and act in ways that are aligned with and oriented toward justice.
I am dedicated to doing and supporting work that advances justice and am committed to the on-going journey of unlearning, learning, and growth it requires.
As the good doctor said, “Injustice anywhere is injustice everywhere.” -Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
* An overview of the six guiding principles of trauma-informed care
**More about disability justice and people-first language here.