My “Why”: Connecting Passion to Justice

In my search for a creative and innovative internship, I came across the SEO and marketing internship with ARCC. Through my lived experience and my studies in psychology, I understand firsthand the impact of education around race, and took this position to help ARCC continue to make information about racial justice and anti-racism readily available and understandable for anyone and everyone. A specific topic that sparks my passion for racial justice is racial equity in healthcare. Healthcare, for many, is often thought of as a safe institution, but in reality the healthcare industry is not immune to biases. It has been reported that Black patients often are not treated the same way in healthcare settings as their white counterparts. Further, biases continue through systematic barriers that prevent adequate healthcare in minority-dense neighborhoods.

Whether it is true for you specifically or not, quality healthcare is not the default for many Americans, specifically people of color. But, what is there to do? I know that as only one person, sometimes making change feels daunting. The best way to make change is to take it one step at a time, and the most crucial first step is to stay informed.

I believe that in order to make change, you have to know what you are fighting for. Through my work with ARCC, I aim to help provide ways to consistently keep up to date on news and information through blogs, articles, and the newsletter. Once you’re well informed, the responsibility of taking further action (e.g., voting for policies and politicians that align with your beliefs, advocating locally, educating others) is up to you, and can be accomplished through whatever method suits you. My passion for marketing, psychology, and communication led me to this position at ARCC, but your advocacy could be through music, literature, public speaking, etc.

I encourage everyone to be bold, be ambitious, and stand true to your beliefs.