Catalyst for Change

By: Sarah Marrs

Over the past week, I have begun my work with the Anti Racism Commitment Coalition. The onboarding process has provided me an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the impacts that ARCC has made, and was able to further visualize the ways I can be a catalyst for change as a member of ARCC and beyond.

I started my onboarding process by listening to the inaugural episode of “The ARCC of Change” podcast. It was very inspiring to hear about the foundational values and experiences that shaped Donzel and the formation of ARCC. A particular quote from the episode stuck with me and helped guide my exploration of ARCC: “one can enrich oneself by being open to learning from others and about others.” In my own life, I am lucky to have been raised in a community with diverse voices, and currently attend a college that prides itself in fostering a campus culture that celebrates the differences and unique identities of its students.

This idea highlighted the significance of coalition in ARCC’s name. Movements have the potential to be much stronger if multiple identities are included in the fight for racial equity and inclusion. Everyone has a variety of perspectives that contribute to who they are, whether it be their race, gender identity, or another personal characteristic. Much like the Black Panthers’ pivotal contributions to the Disability Rights Movement, we all can use our unique perspectives to create multifaceted change.

We as global citizens can reflect on our identities and positionalities to begin working towards a more just society. Change can start with just one individual; make the commitment to anti-racism by joining ARCC.