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What could we do better to amplify what makes you feel powerful? As undergrads we are constantly fighting oppression at our institutions, especially coming from a school in rural Kansas. Having support for our sisters who are facing this hardships would help us to continue to serve our community and not give up when times get hard. Also providing resources and setting the example for us.
What advice do you have for sisters who are exploring their identity/purpose/what makes them feel powerful?
My advice would be to start with understanding the history behind your identity, Decolonizing your mind and realizing that assimilation doesn't equal success. I feel alot of times we are fed the idea that we need to assimalate to white standards in order to be valid. I want other girls to realize that you can be yourself, wear big hoop earrings, love lowriders and still be a Sorority president, a lawyer, or whatever you want to be. Embrace who you are and don't let anyone tell you different.
How would you define diversity?
I would define diversity as making sure everyone has a seat at the table, instead of the table being only for the majority.
How do you define inclusion?
I would define inclusion as primarily white/cis spaces giving up their majority power in order for minorities to gain access to spaces they aren't normally included in.
What makes you feel proud/powerful?
What makes me feel proud/powerful is seeing other women like me fighting for social justice and leading movements for change. I also feel powerful when I embrace my culture and abandon eurocentric ideas and standards.
Can you pinpoint a moment when you became empowered with that which makes you feel powerful? Describe a moment in your life when you started to embrace your identity.
The first time I really felt empowered, was when I began advocating for justice within my community. Being in college I realized I had many opportunities and privileges that other people in my community didn't have, that pushed me to be dedicated to social justice. Entering college I realized that women like myself didn't have a space to go for to get support, we chartered the AA chapter and created a space for us to represent us and defend ourselves. I never pictured myself in a Sorority because just a few years ago I wasn't even someone you even expected to see at college. I love being in KDChi and being our chapter president because I can show girls that you don't have to look a certain way to be successful. I feel powerful knowing that I have a squad of women ready to support me when I'm out here fighting for justice!
Has Kappa Delta Chi had any role in amplifying what makes you feel powerful? Please Describe.
As the President of my chapter I've been able to have a platform to advocate for students of color, especially Latinas. As the only Latina organization on our campus, we are constantly seen as the voice for women in our community. I've had many opportunities to challenge our institution and advocate for chicano/Latinxs studies, resources and support for DACA students. KDChi has given me the opportunity to defend our community and has understood me as a first generation, women of color, nontraditional student, my sister's have been my biggest support.
The Emerald | Winter/Spring 2018