Special Recognition for Maja, Casey, Suzanne, and Angela

July 09, 2023 

Special Recognitions for Maja, Casey, Suzanne, and Angela

Welcome: Ms. Evelyn

Paul Jackson- “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Cultural Antropologist…Margaret Mead

Ms. Evelyn-As organizers of this AntiRacist group, Paul, Ivy, Zoi, and I  realize that we’ve only come this far, in slightly over three years, because four very special women have dedicated their time, talents, and skills, in helping each of us to create change, right where we are. 

 Today, for a few brief, but necessary minutes, we’re prepared to share words of appreciation to four outstanding and committed women, in the group.

Paul

Maja Sandstrom, a natural, dedicated leader, has done so much for our Antiracist cause. 

• Most notably, in November 2021, she joined Dr. Ivory Toldson from the National Branch of the  NAACP and shared the real history of  Critical Race Theory. 
• Her deep research was incredibly informative. Her wisdom is phenomenal! 
• Additionally, earlier this year,  in Jan. and Feb. she was the facilitator of our book study club.” The Light We Carry” by Michelle Obama.  Maja, you are highly loved and appreciated. Thank you!

Ms. Evelyn

Casey Mackenzie and I met virtually, through a MoveOn Phone banking initiative, in 2019/20.

• She is super special to this group because she attended our very first Antiracist Jubilee Symposia.June 19, 2020. 
• Casey was one of four speakers for one of our major events….”White People Talking to White People About Racism!
• As of today, she has only missed two of our meetings, since 2020. I recall her joining once when she was on vacation with her family. She is the epitome of an ally. Thank you, Casey!

Paul

 Suzanne Parker, It was on Feb. 20, 2022, that our AntiRacist group hosted its first book club. 

• That book club was “Caste” written by Isabel Wilkerson. It was powerfully facilitated by you, our friend from Georgia. 
• In 2022,  our group hosted a January 6th, “Day of Remembrance and Action. Suzanne was a keynote speaker, for that event, along with Congressman Sean Casten.  Your natural leadership skills are motivating and highly encouraging. 

Ms. Evelyn

Angela Chandler

• As a group, we organized to bring honor to George Floyd. Little did we know, that three years later, since his murder, we’d be participating in and leading a much-needed -interactive AntiRacist and educational learning journey. 
• We needed to be guided in a gentle, and passionate manner as we began grasping what it means to be an antiracist… 
• Angela, since September 2022, you have brought a  wealth of experience, and strategies to this space. 
• Thank you for sharing your knowledge base and background in Multicultural Organizing with us.
• Additionally, we are so thankful for your incredible patience and understanding, and for how you gracefully responded to our numerous questions, when you presented discussions and interaction on topics such as 

1. “Understanding Bias and Racism
2. Code Switching
3. Conscious and Unconscious Bias
4. Racial Disparities and Law Enforcement
5. Defining the Cornerstones of Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Access

Because of your dedication to our group, we are much better prepared to take action, in our areas of profession and to begin the process of creating a much safer and more supportive, caring, and inclusive environment for ourselves and others.

Paul…..This statement exemplifies each woman.

1. “The best kind of people are the ones that come into your life and make you see the sun where you once saw clouds. 
2. The people that believe in you so much, you start to believe in you too. 
3. The people that love you, simply for being you. 
4. The once in a lifetime kind of people.” —Anonymous

Ms.Evelyn“Maja, Casey, Suzanne, and Angela….

1. We so appreciate all that you have done to make our AntiRacist.Jubilee. Symposia succeed.
2. We’d likely not be here today, without you!
3. To show our sincere appreciation, we’re inviting you to become members of our event planning team. 
4. We’ll schedule a Zoom meeting, soon, and further the conversation.

Paul–At this time, we’ll hear words of acceptance from Maja, Suzanne, and Angela. After that, Angela will begin her presentation for today.

Thank you, ladies! 

The ARJS Leadership Team

This event was recorded, and uploaded to our You Tube Channel.

https://www.youtube.com/@antiracistconversations4293