This episode is important to us not just because its guest is a dear friend of ours but also because the school she represents is directly connected to the work of The Courage Campaign.  

Within, we talk about one of the fundamental components of allyship: weighing Intention vs Impact.  What we say may not always be received as intended and that gap can leave individuals (especially students) feeling unseen, unheard and unrepresented.  It is important that we not only act with empathy but that we are also prepared to be corrected (despite having the best outcomes in our hearts) and admit when we are wrong.  This discussion is a call-to-action for the army of well-intentioned people who are looking for ways to crystalize and deepen what allyship actually entails.

Erinn Buxton is the Climate and Restorative Practices Coordinator at the Joseph Lee K-8 School, in Boston Public Schools. Erinn previously worked in community mental health and in partnership with the Joseph Lee School as a school based clinician. Erinn's experience in counseling with students and families highlighted the impact of oppressive systems on mental health. Erinn's desire to challenge these systems, amplify voices that had been silenced and work to bridge opportunity gaps only grew, and led to her passion working to support and advocate in all areas of social justice. 

 Erinn focuses on supporting the community across grade levels and working to repair harm among community members when conflict arises. Erinn works closely with partners (hello Courage Campaign) to identify how we can bridge opportunity gaps through resources and increased access.  

Erinn believes deeply in increasing student and family voice and working to deconstruct the oppressive systems that negatively impact students and families.

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Until next time—be well, be courageous.