“My perspective on social justice and equity has been shaped by witnessing the systemic injustices faced by people of color, immigrants, and other marginalized groups. I’ve seen how racial disparities manifest in access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. These disparities are not just statistics to me; they represent the lived experiences of my family, friends, and community members.
In my pursuit of social justice, I’ve come to understand the importance of intersectionality – the interconnected nature of social categorizations such as race, class, gender, and sexuality, and how they overlap and intersect to compound oppression. This recognition has been instrumental in broadening my advocacy efforts to encompass a diverse range of issues and experiences.
However, alongside my commitment to social justice, I’ve also recognized the need for cultural humility the acknowledgment of one’s own cultural biases and the willingness to engage with others in a respectful and open-minded manner. As someone who straddles multiple cultural identities, I’ve learned to navigate the complexities of cultural humility firsthand.
Cultural humility requires continuous self-reflection and introspection. It’s about recognizing that I don’t have all the answers and that my perspective is shaped by my own cultural upbringing and experiences. This humility has allowed me to approach cross-cultural interactions with curiosity rather than presumption, to listen more than I speak, and to embrace the diversity of perspectives and experiences that enrich our world.
One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned on this journey is the importance of discomfort. True growth and understanding often come from stepping outside of our comfort zones and confronting the biases and prejudices that we may hold. It’s uncomfortable to acknowledge our privilege or to confront the ways in which we may inadvertently perpetuate systems of oppression. But it’s only by leaning into that discomfort that we can begin to dismantle those systems and create a more just and equitable society.
In my professional life, I strive to embody the principles of social justice and cultural humility in everything I do. Whether I’m working with students from diverse backgrounds, collaborating with colleagues on a project, or advocating for change, I approach each interaction with humility, empathy, and a commitment to equity.
Ultimately, my journey toward understanding social justice and cultural humility is ongoing. I recognize that I still have much to learn and unlearn, and that true allyship requires both humility and action. But I’m dedicated to continuing this journey, both personally and professionally, and to contributing to a more inclusive and equitable world for all. “
-Tammy Jackson, MBA
Climate Culture and Safety LLC
BJA Project Program Specialist
Birmingham City Schools