By Marquette University
The podcast currently has 31 episodes available.
Sheena Carey welcomes Aki Alvarez, a 4th-year International Business and Information Systems major, in a discussion about the intricacies of identity and belonging. This episode will challenge your understanding of intersectionality and highlight the significance of representation and acceptance in educational spaces and beyond.
As a biracial, pansexual, and gender-fluid individual, Aki shares her challenges of navigating multiple identities and how her experiences at Marquette helped her build a sense of belonging. She speaks candidly about finding community, both at Marquette and abroad in England, and how these experiences have shaped her understanding of who she is.
Ever felt the pressure to "prove" your identity to others? Discover how Aki navigates this complexity and the strategies they use to maintain authenticity and self-worth.
Episode Highlights
09:03 - I feel like I've gotten to be more of a leader and I feel a little more appreciated because of all the different projects, groups, and clubs I've been a part of. I feel like it allows me these avenues to explore myself, but also to find a little bit of purpose. I've done some LGBTQ protests and found community in LGBTQ or POC spaces, which kind of validate me as well. Being active in those communities gives me purpose, but also makes me feel valid. I don't need to prove that I'm POC enough or trans enough or gay enough—it's validating. So, I think it really helps with my self-worth and whatnot.
16:19 - The world is a bit chaotic at the moment, especially American politics. I really hope it goes in a better direction for the majority of people. It seems like it's moving forward a little, then backwards a lot, and then forward a little, backwards a lot. So I hope things become easier for people of color and LGBTQ people in general. I really hope that, in a sense, something gets done properly.
18:13 - I wanted to talk about identity in a sentence, because I really did struggle with that. But I want people to take away that you don't have to prove your identity. If you're POC, if you're a woman, if you're LGBTQ in any capacity, you don't need to prove that you are those things. You can just say you are, and you shouldn't feel the need to prove it.
Interview
What is that story?
01:33 - I have many different identities. I’m pansexual, I’m under the trans umbrella, so I’m gender-fluid. I’m also biracial—I’m white and Filipino. I wanted to talk about how having these clashing or mixed identities can be a struggle.
How would you describe the path you're on right now and your journey overall?
02:24 - I still don’t 100% know exactly who I am in every aspect. Identity evolves with what you learn and go through. Ten years ago, I wouldn’t have identified as LGBTQ, but with time and experience, I’ve started to better understand who I am and that has guided me in what I want to do.
Where are you originally from?
03:22 - I’m originally from a really small town in Oregon called Myrtle Point. People have probably never heard of it, but it’s really out in the middle of nowhere.
In what ways does the theme of the mural project resonate for you? How does it speak to you?
03:48 - When I toured Marquette, the mural was still being painted, but it was mostly done. I thought it was really neat to see because I came from a place with very little diversity—there were only three Asians, and two of them were my brother and me. Seeing more diversity so visibly displayed was really cool for me. I didn’t want to go to university in Oregon because I wanted to experience newer people and more diversity. In Oregon, there aren’t many international students or people from all over America at the universities. I wanted something like Marquette, in the middle of a big city, where I could meet all sorts of people from around the world. Seeing the mural reassured me that I would get what I was looking for.
Do you feel you've gotten what you were looking for?
05:38 - Yeah. I was able to build a pretty good sense of community at Marquette. I met a lot of people in the LGBTQ community, which helped me figure out who I was. I also met international students from all over, and that helped me understand more about where I belong.
How are you experiencing yourself being in England?
06:25 - I wanted to study abroad to get more experiences, meet new people, and experience different cultures. I really wanted to understand what it would be like to go to university in England. I’m having a fairly similar experience to what I had at Marquette. But being an American in England is interesting because people often ask, 'Oh, so are you American?' It’s a bit weird to have people point that out. I sometimes think about saying I’m Canadian since they can’t really tell the difference, but I usually just say I’m American.
What has been Marquette's impact on the lives of women of color?
07:59 - From what I’ve seen, it’s gotten a bit better. They definitely provide more opportunities for younger women of color, especially through clubs and student organizations. These spaces allow people to build a community, take on leadership roles, and organize things. I think that’s a pretty nice opportunity that Marquette offers.
What are some ways that Marquette has impacted your sense of self-worth?
09:01 - I feel like I’ve been able to become more of a leader and feel appreciated. Being part of different projects, groups, and clubs has given me purpose. I’ve participated in LGBTQ protests and found community in both LGBTQ and POC spaces. It validates me and makes me feel like I don’t need to prove I’m "POC enough, trans enough, or gay enough." So, I think it really helps with my self-worth and whatnot.
Are there some women of color that have served as inspiration for you?
10:33 - I would say I had three, but I can only remember two right now. I grew up watching Zendaya and Selena Gomez. They really inspired me because I kind of wanted to be an actor when I was younger, but I didn’t pursue that. I just thought it was really neat that they had the opportunity. Zendaya, especially, has built a really big career, and she’s in a lot of my favorite movies, like Dune.
Did you see Malcolm and Marie? She was in that.
11:36 - Yeah. She’s been in a lot of really cool things recently, like Spider-Man and whatnot. It’s really neat to see someone I looked up to when I was younger being in things that I love and still really like.
Is there something about the way they’re navigating their worlds that speaks to you?
12:01 - Yeah, I identified with Zendaya because one of her parents is white and one is Black, which is similar to my family. I remember seeing her talk about that when I was younger, and it resonated with me. It was neat to see her struggle with the idea of having two sides.
What are some of the ways that you've experienced these feelings, thoughts, and actions? In other words, how do you take care of yourself? What's your approach or your orientation toward healing and wellness?
13:32 - I try to stop doing classwork and worrying about things after a certain time and just clear my head. I don’t think it’s healthy to stress all the time. I also do Tai Chi, which is like yoga and meditation combined. It’s a nice way to relax, though I haven’t done it much while I’ve been in England.
What impact do you hope to have on other women of color?
14:56 - I hope I can inspire people to be more confident and set boundaries. Friends have told me that I inspire them to be more confident. Just by being myself and believing in myself, I hope others feel inspired to be themselves too.
Just simply by being, right?
15:55 - Yeah. Just by being myself and not caring too much about what other people think, I hope it inspires others to be themselves.
What are your hopes for the future--your future, Marquette's future, and the future of other women of color?
16:17 - The world is chaotic right now, especially with American politics. I hope things go in a better direction, particularly for people of color and LGBTQ people. I hope things get easier for them in the future.
Is there a role you'd like to play in that?
17:07 - When I was in America, I did some activism, like little protests. But it can feel a bit hopeless at times. I think there needs to be a really established group of people if real change is going to happen. I would do it, but I don’t have the resources for that. I don’t have the time or the money, but I hope someone does organize something like that.
What would you like our community to know about you and your journey?
18:12 - I really wanted to talk about identity because I struggled with it. But what I want people to take away is that you don’t have to prove your identity. If you’re a person of color, a woman, or part of the LGBTQ community, you don’t need to prove that you are those things. You can just say you are, and that should be enough. I felt like I had to prove my identity in many parts of my life, but I want others to know they don’t have to justify who they are.
Did you have to sort of explain why you are here?
19:12 - Yeah. In some sense, it feels like you have to prove to other people that you are the way you are. You have to be like, "Yeah, this is who I am,"' and keep trying to convince others to believe you. But I don’t think you need other people to believe you. You should just be able to say who you are, and it should be accepted.
Contact Information:
http://www.marquette.edu/diversity/
Credits:
The Our Roots Say That We're Sisters Podcast series was recorded and produced by Podcast Town (www.podcasttown.net)
Chief Edith Hudson, head of the Marquette University Police Department, shares her powerful story of resilience, faith, and leadership. As the eldest child of hardworking parents, Edith faced many challenges, but a pivotal moment came when a colleague questioned her ability to succeed in law enforcement. That doubt fueled her determination, leading to a successful 25-year career.
Edith reflects on how her identity as a Black woman and her deep faith in God have shaped her compassionate, community-focused approach to policing. She talks about Ignatian-inspired policing, where recognizing God in everyone guides her to treat people with dignity and respect.
Edith also highlights the importance of self-care, through practices like silence and forgiveness, and hopes to encourage more women of color to enter law enforcement and drive meaningful change from within. Tune in to hear her inspiring journey and insights that could reshape your perspective on leadership and community policing.
Episode Highlights
03:00 - I have many layers to my identity, as many women do. But I think my faith, my relationship with God, and my adoration and love for Jesus are really the foundation of my identity. I identify as Black, African American, because that’s what this country defines me as. I also identify as a woman, with many layers—mother, friend, and my work is another layer. I think responsibility for many people is also part of those layers. But my faith in God is truly the foundation of who I am and what I enjoy most about my identity.
09:13 - One of the things that was really appealing to me about Marquette's police department was that it was new and different. I refer to it as Ignatian-inspired policing, and I believe that existed before I came there. Being a student and immersed in the spiritual exercises has really helped me understand that God truly is in everything. He is in all people, and if we take the time to look for God in everyone, we treat others differently. The individuals who come to us—whether they are homeless, in the midst of a mental health crisis, or struggling with drug addiction—they're God's children too. They need respect, to be treated fairly, and to be seen. In my opinion, if we don't subscribe to the Ignatian values that our university stands on, then we're not doing our community the service they deserve.
21:13 - My hope for the future is that women of color realize the exercises are for you too. There's no specific group of people the exercises are made for; it's not just for Catholic women or Catholic men. The exercises are for everyone, and there's something freeing in them. My hope is that more women of color will take advantage of the exercises and receive that free gift that God gives us
Interview
What is your story?
01:28 - My story, I think, is very much like many of the stories of women that we see, not only at Marquette, but across the city of Milwaukee and across the country. I didn’t find my current job, my current vocation, until some things happened in life that really weren’t the easiest of things. So I can't say it was an easy journey, but it truly has been a very fulfilling journey. Hopefully, it's a story that will help other women. I had the privilege of being the child of two very hard workers who came up through Mississippi and ended up in Gary, Indiana. We moved around a little, and we ended up here in Milwaukee. Along the way, we really experienced the highs and lows of life, but through faith, family, and love, we made it to a good place.
How do you identify?
03:00 - I have many layers to my identity, as many women do. But I think my faith, my relationship with God, my adoration, and my love for Jesus is really the foundation of my identity. I identify as Black African-American because that’s the construct this country uses. I also identify as a woman. There are many layers—mother, friend, and work is one of those layers. Responsibility for many people is another part of my identity. But my faith in God really is the foundation of who I am and what I enjoy most about my identity.
How did you get on your path?
4:06 - Life has been pretty challenging at times. I was married very young—I got married when I was 18. On my journey, my ex-husband worked for the police department, and one day, he and his partner came by for lunch. His partner made a comment about how the police department was hiring and that they were looking for new people. He said, "I think you’d be great at it," but then he laughed, implying it wasn’t a job I could do. That stirred a "holy anger" within me. Not only did I apply, but even though I failed the first time around, I persisted. I became a police officer and ended up, through 25 years of law enforcement in Milwaukee, becoming an Assistant Chief of the Police Department. I think being told I wasn’t good enough really made me want it more, and I didn’t even know I wanted it.
How have these various layers of identity informed the choices that you've made in life?
05:29 - I am the oldest child. I’m a first-generation child, so there’s always a responsibility that comes with being the first generation. Because of that responsibility, I’ve always thrived in positions of authority, or positions where I’m responsible for helping and caring for others. It’s something I enjoy doing, and I feel grateful for being placed in those roles.
In what way does the theme of the mural project resonate for you?
06:31 - I love the fact that the roots are clearly displayed because we’re all tied together. We all need one another in the community, and that connectedness helps us all to achieve. No single one of us can accomplish anything great on our own. We need to be connected to one another, and I love the way the mural shows that.
What have you seen or felt to be Marquette's impact on women of color?
07:13 - Marquette can be a challenging place at times for women of color. Sometimes, it appears that we’re not at the table, and who knows the reasoning behind that. Sometimes there’s a feeling that you’re not fully supported, but I’m very thankful for the community of women of color at Marquette, and others as well, who provide support. From my perspective, they’ve helped us succeed.
What are some of the ways in which Marquette has influenced your sense of self-worth?
08:13 - The greatest gift that Marquette has given me has been the spiritual exercises. I didn’t know about Saint Ignatius and the spiritual exercises, nor did I fully understand Ignatian spirituality until I came to Marquette and had the opportunity to experience it. I wasn’t just exposed to it—I was immersed in it. It impacted me so much that I took classes, and now I provide spiritual direction and accompaniment through the spiritual exercises. It had a life-changing and truly profound influence on me.
How has it connected to, or how has it influenced the way in which you police at Marquette and lead at Marquette?
09:15 - One of the things that appealed to me about Marquette's police department was that it was new and different. I refer to it as Ignatian-inspired policing. Being a student immersed in the spiritual exercises helped me realize that God is truly in everything and in all people. When you take the time to look for God in all people, you treat them differently. The individuals who come to us—whether they’re homeless, in the midst of mental illness, or dealing with addiction—are God's children too. They need respect, to be treated fairly, and to be seen. If we don't subscribe to the Ignatian values that our university stands on, then we’re not doing the community the service it deserves.
Is that approach to policing only possible at a place like Marquette, or can it be useful in other departments?
11:45 - I think it can be used anywhere, and I think in many police departments, it already is. It’s about seeing others’ humanity, treating them with dignity and respect, and helping them, not just with a band-aid solution, but by truly understanding what they need. It’s what our community demands of us. Some police officers already do this, and others can learn to.
Is there a way that all of those elements can work together and still flow out of Ignatian spirituality?
12:55 - Well, absolutely, because we are all part of the same community. There’s no 'police community' and then 'everybody else.' We are all part of the same community. So we all have to work together in order to make our country and our world a better place. If we don’t do that, then we end up with what we have now.
Who are some of the women who have inspired you?
13:22 - I have the privilege of sitting across the table from one. Sheena, I’ve always admired seeing you in many spaces, but especially in situations where there are only a couple of people of color in the room. You bring truth to whatever conversation is going on, and you don’t water it down. You don’t shrink, and you don’t hide your light for the sake of potentially harming someone else’s feelings, and I really love that. Another person is Janice Welburn, and I love Janice. I really do miss her. During my early years, she was instrumental in helping me navigate Marquette and understand where the university needed me. That was greatly helpful. The last person I’ll mention is Sister Anne Arabome. Sister Anne was absolutely wonderful. She definitely saw me. She introduced me to the spiritual exercises, and I’m forever grateful to her for seeing the potential in me and how I could help others through the exercises.
How do you understand, experience, or practice wellness and healing within our current times, spaces, and based on what you need?
15:18 - Faith has really sustained me and continues to do so. It’s hard work—not only serving our community and seeing what our people need, but also leading the people who are out there serving. It can be very stressful at times, and faith has been my anchor. There are various things I do for wellness. Sitting in silence, practicing solitude, is very helpful for me. Some may wonder how being in silence, void of anything, can help, but there’s so much creativity that comes from it—thoughts about things I should do. Silence is instrumental in my discernment process. I try not to make any major decisions that will impact others without spending time in silence. It gives me space to hear the Spirit and receive guidance. I also work hard at forgiveness, not just for others, but for myself. If I can make it through a day without making more than one mistake, it’s been a good day. Forgiveness is key because sitting in unforgiveness darkens everything and makes it hard to move forward and make decisions.
Is there something particular that women of color bring to this idea of self-care, self-healing, and wellness?
17:41 - I think that sometimes we find it difficult because we are always taking care of other people. We find it challenging to take care of ourselves. There’s something about our resourcefulness—we figure out what we need and give ourselves space for that. And that’s part of self-care. No one else's self-care program works for everyone. You have to find your own self-care, and being resourceful is key. I think we manage to find self-care in many ways, and it looks different from person to person. For me, self-care is about forgiveness and silence.
When was the first time you gave yourself permission to take care of yourself?
18:51- I think the spiritual exercises helped me understand the need for self-care. I was responsible for many things, always moving, and if you're not paying attention constantly, you can miss something. I didn’t want to miss anything. Through reflection, I realized that I don’t need to do everything for everybody. I have my assignment—this thing that I’m supposed to do—and as long as I do that well, I don’t have to worry about other things that aren’t meant for me to handle. We, as women, need to understand that we’re not meant to take care of every problem. We’re only meant to handle certain things. Figure out what you need to focus on and don’t burden yourself with everything else, because it will weigh you down and break you.
What impact do you hope to have on women of color, both on Marquette's campus and beyond?
20:31 - I hope other women see that law enforcement could be an opportunity for them because I’m not going to do this forever. We can’t fix what we see as broken if we’re on the outside. You need someone inside, who understands the system, to make change. It’s my hope that some women will be inspired to create change through law enforcement. I also hope women of color realize that the spiritual exercises are for them too, not just for Catholic women or men. There’s something freeing in the exercises, and I hope more women of color take advantage of that gift.
What would you like our community to know about you and your journey?
22:12 - I would like our community to know that I come to my work with my full heart. I love our community, and I love what I do. I find joy in providing care and support for our community, especially in times when they need something extra. I also want people to know that if I can do this, so can they. I didn’t start out thinking I would one day be a chief of a police department, but here I am. I hope my story shows that through silence, through forgiveness, the Spirit can take you to places you never imagined. You can find a sense of fulfillment in your life that words can't describe. I’m very fortunate to have experienced that.
Contact Information:
http://www.marquette.edu/diversity/
Credits:
The Our Roots Say That We're Sisters Podcast series was recorded and produced by Podcast Town (www.podcasttown.net)
Dr. Abiola Keller is an associate professor who has dedicated her career to advancing health equity and promoting diversity in education. A Nigerian American, her work at Marquette University bridges her cultural heritage with her passion for mentorship and advocacy for women of color. Her academic prowess and commitment to inclusion make her an inspiring figure who is shaping the future of healthcare and academic leadership.
We navigate the journey of Dr. Abiola Keller, an influential associate professor at Marquette University's College of Nursing. Dr. Keller, with her Nigerian American identity, illuminates the challenges and triumphs of pursuing excellence in academia. She discusses the impact of visibility for women of color within the academic sphere, the significance of mentorship, and the importance of community and self-care. Join us as we uncover how individual investment, mentorship, and cultural values shape the pursuit of health equity in Milwaukee.
Episode Highlights
09:18 - I had a space where people saw me for who I was, not just the color of my skin. But it also connected me to faculty and staff who were committed to my transformation and my ability to achieve my dreams.
16:12 - He was making investments in people to come back and stay in Milwaukee and make change. And that's when I think about my decisions, that's what I think about is, you know, someone believed in me so much that they funded my education because they knew that I could make a difference.
21:04 - I think in academia, to be a woman of color and to succeed, you need that grace and that poise because there are some days when the response you want to give is not the responsible advance the agenda or the conversation.
23:22 - We are fighting while you were here because we want you to walk across that stage because your power increases exponentially when you are an alum of this institution.
Interview
What drove you to return to Milwaukee and focus your efforts on health equity?
01:30 - It was important for me to come back and contribute to the city that had invested in me. Through my work, I want to ensure that health equity isn't just an idea, but a reality we're actively building
Can you speak to the importance of visibility and role models for women of color in your field
05:45 - Seeing people who look like me in positions of influence helped me visualize my own path. It's crucial that women of color have those examples to aspire to.
What strategies do you use to inspire your students and navigate challenges
09:17 - I encourage them to rise above obstacles by focusing on their well-being and practicing resilience. It's about equipping them with the tools to succeed both academically and personally.
How has your Nigerian heritage influenced your perspective on education and success?
12:52 - My heritage instilled a strong sense of possibility and expectations. It shaped how I approach challenges and seize opportunities.
What's next for you in your mission to integrate the community with Marquette University
15:26 - I'm working towards creating a space where the community doesn't just feel welcome but also seen and heard, a true reflection of the diverse voices and experiences we value
Contact Information:
http://www.marquette.edu/diversity/
Credits:
The Our Roots Say That We're Sisters Podcast series was recorded and produced by Podcast Town (www.podcasttown.net)
In this episode, we are joined by JohnRae' Stowers, the associate director of EOP Student Support Services, to share her inspiring story. JohnRae' reflects on her upbringing as the youngest of three, raised by her single mother in East St. Louis.
She highlights the pivotal role her mother played in emphasizing the importance of education and paving the way for her success. JohnRae' discusses her deep-rooted connection to her identity as a black woman and the influence of strong female figures in her life.
She also delves into the impact of the Our Roots Say That We're Sisters mural project and her hopes for the future, both for herself and for the community. Join us as we uncover JohnRae's powerful journey and the meaningful impact she continues to create in the lives of others.
Episode Highlights:
03:00 - Pathways in Education: "My first job, I was in 7th grade working as a tutor at Silver Spring Neighborhood Center. And so that kinda created the foundation of, like, my love for people, education, how do I, you know, get young people to work together and connect and have fun while learning?"
06:36 - Empowerment Through Sisterhood: "When I say that you're my sister, that means I have a responsibility to you to make sure you are okay, that your needs are met."
10:18 - The Importance of Support Networks: "Just showing up when they know that I have things that they can support. So in that I think that was that for me was huge. Like, who's gonna show up when I need somebody to be there, whether it's an event that I'm hosting, an event where I'm speaking at, or if I'm sick or need help with my children. I have a wonderful circle of friends that are adamant about showing me that I'm I got you.
Interview
What's the story you want to share with us today?
01:21 - When asked that question, I'm thinking, like, what story do I share? I have so many. You know, it brought me back to, like, my mom, who has been a significant influence in my life.
So how how has, your identity as a a black woman really informed the choices that you've been making?
05:18 - Raised by a black woman. So, I, like I said, watched my mom go through things, hard things, easy things, fun things, sad things. My faith has been a cornerstone, guiding my actions and interactions with others.
How has the mural project resonated for you?
06:30 - The mural project just made me think about my mom, who passed away in 2014, and the impact she had on my life. It triggered the creation of the Divas Branch, a support network focused on empowering women, which has brought healing and resilience.
What would you say has been Marquette's impact on women of color?
08:26 - I think I think Marquette tries really, really hard. I think that women of color on Marquette's campus must be intentional about connecting with each other. I don't think that it's going to naturally just happen. Right? We may work in the same office and we connect that way, but across campus, I think that we have to be intentional about bringing each other together.
Other than your mother, who are some of the other women who have been inspirational for you?
09:47 - Hands down, Bridgette Johnson, my college recruiter, had a significant impact, guiding me through college and helping me navigate various challenges. Her influence and the support of other strong women have been instrumental in shaping my journey.
This the forum for this year, the theme has has been revolving around ideas of self care and wellness, balance, healing. What are some of the things that you do? ?
11:36 - I am a crybaby. I think that's how I release. Like, when I feel like, what do we call it? An empath? Like, when I feel, I feel. And so I'm gonna cry. I'm gonna, you know? But for self care, I love silence. I love, like, getting away.
What are some other things that women of color have done in support of you during your healing?
12:48 - Just showing up when they know that I have things that they can support. So in that I think that was that for me was huge. Like, who's gonna show up when I need somebody to be there, whether it's an event that I'm hosting, an event where I'm speaking at, or if I'm sick or need help with my children.
What impact do you hope to have on women of color? Those who are coming behind you, those who've maybe gone before you but are looking back?
13:40 - I truly hope I inspire them to do it. I truly hope I inspire them, 1st and foremost, But let's just do it. Because if you think about it too much, you will think yourself right out of doing it. And so I hope that women see me out here being, you know, just a good person, a good spirit, a good energy that they wanna be around, that they see, like, if it's something that they won't, go get it, and that they can lean in and depend on women.
What are your hopes for the future? Not only, for yourself and for the babies that you're taking care of, both those that are yours and those that are others, and, the future of Marquette.
14:38 - I give out scholarships. And, my my dream is to give out more and to be, like, an emergency funding spot when students are are in a jam or they..... need fees .... I do have a legacy foundation in honor of my mom. And so my hope is to build that so that I can do more in the community.
Contact Information:
JohnRae' Stowers
Credits:
The Our Roots Say That We're Sisters Podcast series was recorded and produced by Podcast Town (www.podcasttown.net)
Sheena Carey explores the inspiring journey of Fatima Jimenez Gonzalez, a vibrant Latina, a Dreamer, and a first-generation immigrant. Fatima opens up about her challenges, her hopes, and her dreams for the future.
As she prepares to embark on her teaching career, hear her discuss her concerns about the profession and her hopes for herself and for Marquette. Feel the strength and determination in her voice as she speaks up for herself and other Dreamers.
Remember, this is not just a story. It's a testament to the beautiful diversity of our community. Tune in to feel inspired, challenged, and hopeful all at once.
Episode Highlights:
04:30 - We've been doing a lot of advocacy in terms of really making our presence known on campus and teaching other people. You'd be surprised. A lot of people don't know what a Dreamer is. They don't know what DACA is. They barely know what undocumented means, which is really ridiculous in this day and age. But we've been able to really educate our Marquette community and just overall feel like more people see us.
13:55 - I hope that other people realize that your silence isn't going to protect you. And so, you might as well say what you want and you might as well speak up for yourself. Say what makes you uncomfortable, what's happening, and try to seek help in that way, if that makes sense.
16:36 - I think it's important for them to realize everybody's story is different, and everybody's story is unique, and everybody's story is important. And so, I would like to say that I know my story is important, and I know that my story is meaningful, and I hope that they find some truth in that as well.
Interview
What aspects of that story do you want to share with us today?
01:30 - I'm here to represent not just first-generation students, Latinas, but most importantly, my story as an undocumented immigrant, and how I've been able to persevere as a dreamer, not only in college, but in life in general.
06:16 - We started the pitch by stating a lot of the things that undocumented immigrants can't do, so we had one person pop up and say, "Undocumented immigrants can't do this," and then someone else stood up, "and they can't do this." And so, I think it really opened the eyes of everyone in the crowd.
Where do you come from? Are you a Milwaukee native?
01:47 - I've grown up in Milwaukee, pretty much lived here my entire life, but I was born in Mexico. I was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco. And I came over here just under the age of two, but I've lived in Milwaukee, grown up here, gone to school here, worked here.
How did you get on this path?
02:20 - Everyone who is older than me was or is also undocumented or now documented. And so, I've been able to see them persevere through their status. And also my parents have always been very pro education. And so, my path has always been through education. And I think that's why I have fallen into the education field in terms of what I want to do in the future as well.
What are some of the challenges you've faced being an undocumented individual in Milwaukee, especially at Marquette?
02:59 - A lot of the challenges I face include not being able to apply to certain programs, especially within the education field. A lot of those require you to either be a citizen or have some type of like federal documentation.
You've created some programs, some opportunities for other folks like yourself. Talk a little bit about those.
04:01 -At Marquette, we started the first official Dreamers Group, and so we're called Marquette Dreamers. So, it's a group of students who welcome not just undocumented students, but anyone with DACA, anyone that comes from mixed status families or anyone that wants to be an ally to our community.
What was the program you started for undocumented students who couldn't participate in, say, paid internship programs?
05:14 - We pitched through the social impact track and we really wanted to find a way to give the students who identify like us, but are still at more of a disadvantage because they don't have DACA, to be able to receive professional work experiences, and really get a taste for what their life could be if they didn't have this obstacle of getting a work permit, just to kind of keep them encouraged.
At this point, no one's been placed in programs?
06:46 - No. We're hoping to pilot the program by the summertime.
What ways has the mural project resonated for you?
07:20 - It tries to highlight the stories of women who are systematically made invisible. And I think, not only as a Latina, but especially as an undocumented person, our community is often made invisible. And I think people often forget what it's like to live as someone who doesn't have papers or who is undocumented. And so, I think that's one of the main things that resonates with me in terms of this project of really just making our voice be heard and having people see us.
What's been Marquette's impact on the lives of women of color on this campus?
08:26 - I would say Marquette does offer a lot of opportunities for women to take charge and be leaders. It's a little harder for me to identify. I went to an all girls schools for middle school and high school. And so, I've always been in a mentality of like women can do anything and women take charge because that's what I've experienced.
What women of color have served as inspirations for you?
09:22 - I would say my mom is my biggest inspiration. I mean, like I said, she's a mother of eight, immigrated. She's really prospered in this country and has been able to give us a beautiful life despite all the challenges that have been thrown in her face.
09:51 - All the professors I've had who are people of color have always been my favorite, and I think it's because it's easier for me to identify with them. And so, I definitely see myself in them, specifically because I want to enter the education field.
How do you understand or experience or practice wellness and healing?
10:33 - I'd say my biggest way of taking care of myself and my mental health is really talking about things. And so, it's funny to me saying that because I'm a big chatterbox. I'm a very loud person. I like to talk but that's also the way that I let things out and vent.
What do you do though to take care of yourself? What are some of the things that you do that rejuvenate you, re-energize you, and give you an opportunity to decompress?
11:46 - I like to be more myself a lot. So, taking time to step away from everyone and everything to just kind of center myself and really get into a mentality of like, "Okay, how am I actually feeling? What do I want to come out of this?" Just taking time to reflect. So, I think reflecting is one of the ways that I like to take care of myself.
Are you pretty regular at doing that or do you have to remind yourself, or do you get to the brink and go, "Oh, wait a minute, I need to do something?"
12:22 - I definitely don't do it as often as I should. I'm a person that likes to keep busy and also I like to take on a lot of responsibility just because I like to help. I want to do as much as possible so I'm always going to say, "Yes I can help with this. I can do that." And so, sometimes it becomes very overwhelming.
What impact do you hope to have on other women of color, those who are following behind you, those you might meet, and those maybe who have already gone on ahead, but kind of need a little support?
13:29 - I think what I would most like to inspire other people to do is to really speak their mind and not be afraid to stand up for themselves. And I know especially as a woman, as a Latina, as a first-generation immigrant, it's something that's really difficult for most of us.
What are your hopes for the future? Not only your own, but Marquette, and for the community, and communities that you're working with and that you're a part of?
14:21 - In terms of Marquette, I really hope that they do a better job of supporting their Dreamers on campus, and offering resources, not just financially but mental-health wise and work opportunities like we've mentioned.
14:40 - I also would hope that more of our Dreamers feel comfortable coming forward to not necessarily out themselves, but be part of our community and feel supported by it, because I know it can be intimidating to join the group and have people look at you and be like, "Oh, they're a Dreamer. They're undocumented and such."
15:04 - I hope that our society finds a way to welcome more immigrants in. I hope that government finds, opens up a pathway to citizenship or something that will be able to help the millions of undocumented immigrants.
What about your future?
15:26 - I hope that I fall in love with teaching. It's definitely a concern. I mean, I know it's something that I want to do and I know regardless, I want to be in that setting of giving back to my community and helping students and being involved with youth.
What would you like the community to know about you and your journey?
16:17 - I would like to say that as much as I am someone that is willing to tell my story and who is willing to speak out, my story does not define the same story of every other Latina, every other Dreamer, every other first-generation student. I think it's important for them to realize everybody's story is different, and everybody's story is unique, and everybody's story is important.
Contact Information:
Fatima Jimenez Gonzalez
Credits:
The Our Roots Say That We're Sisters Podcast series was recorded and produced by Podcast Town (www.podcasttown.net)
In this enlightening episode, we venture into the healing universe of Parisa Shirazi Chavoya, a queer Iranian-American woman who's transforming the wellness landscape in Milwaukee with her unique blend of yoga and sound healing practices.
A double graduate of Marquette University, Parisa's incredible journey from political science to the realm of healing is a story that needs to be heard. With a strong emphasis on trauma-informed, accessible classes, her work aims to serve individuals with chronic pain conditions, disabilities, and pregnant women.
This episode is a tribute to resilience, a celebration of diverse culture, and an exploration into the power of sound healing. Parisa's journey with fibromyalgia and her mantra, "Don't be afraid of being still," serves as an inspiration to many. Tune in to discover how she leverages her experiences to foster a culture of wellness and empowerment.
Episode Highlights:
02:34 - There was this desire to learn more embodiment practices where I was able to find healing and rest through movement and yoga became that tool for me throughout my twenties.
04:52 - I think my experience of my own healing journey of learning how to better support myself and also having a chronic pain condition myself has really drawn me to being more empathetic and understanding of other people's realities. I've been doing a lot of extensive training to be able to learn how to work with people.
08:35 - Movement had become my medicine. And also when it came to the mental health aspect, I had become so busy with my life and didn't know how to really quiet my mind, and that was resulting in panic attacks, high stress levels.
Interview
What's the story you want to share with us today?
I really want to share more about my own healing journey and how wellness has played such a big role in that.
How do you identify?
01:55 - I identify as a queer Iranian-American woman.
Were you born in Iran or were you born here?
02:04 - I was born outside of Chicago. Both my parents are from Iran, came here when they were young, and my brother and I were born in the US.
How did you get on the path that you're on now?
02:16 - It's been a journey for me. I have always been really interested in movement. It comes from my culture. Iranians are very expressive people. We're very creative people.
02:54 - My chronic pain condition of fibromyalgia and then mental health concerns really drew me towards yoga and sound healing.
How did you go from being a practitioner to being an educator or a healer?
03:13 - I was feeling really drawn to working in higher ed. I had roles in different capacities and felt really driven in that way.
03:36 - I signed up for a yoga teacher training program, not really knowing where it was going to take me. And I fell in love with the practice and the idea of sharing that modality with other people.
What's been your greatest joy as a yoga practitioner?
03:56 - I love seeing people rest. The last couple of minutes during the class is Savasana, which is the time of complete rest. People are able to be still during that time and every time I get emotional seeing it.
How has your identity informed the choices that you've made?
05:11 - My background is Iranian, we're culturally very hospitable people. We love to serve other people, hold space for other people. And so, that has always naturally been a part of my journey. But now to be able to do it through yoga has been a really cool way to be able to share that.
Do you offer your courses, your classes throughout the community? Do you have a particular space that you use?
05:37 - Currently, I am at a space in Bayview, but I'll be shifting to a new space that I'm hosting my classes called Moving Galaxy in January of 2024. And I teach five times a week there. And then I also host monthly sound healing sessions at that space, but I also do sound baths at other locations all throughout the city. So, I'll collaborate with organizations. I have done some at Marquette for students and it's an opportunity for people to experience the modality in different spaces.
You said you work with children from time to time, or not?
06:23 - I've worked with high school students, but I won't do under high school right now. I really feel drawn to working with adults.
How has the theme of the mural resonated for you?
06:49 - In my senior year when this mural was created, it was this really exciting time to be able to see people like me represented. I think it's empowering for myself and so many other women, on Marquette's campus, especially young women who are in these formative years of trying to understand how do they present themselves, how do they see themselves show up in different spaces.
What women of color have served as inspiration for you?
07:19 - I've drawn inspiration for my current work from a lot of other women of color, yoga teachers, specifically Indian women.
07:35 - From Iranian women who have been at the front lines of women liberation movements for years now to historically in the US. So, many women of color being the front lines of peace movements.
How has your wellness practices really helped you overcome challenges on your path to healing?
08:12 - Yoga in particular has helped me a lot with my physical ailments and mental health. So, physically, with the chronic pain that I had, I was able to alleviate a lot of the discomforts that I was carrying in my body. I was able to find a modality that was sustainable for me where I didn't have to rely on medication and other tools.
08:52 - Yoga and meditation has helped me learn how to be still and to be comfortable with just being on my own and being with myself and really listening to myself in ways that I hadn't for so long.
09:06 - Sound healing being the practice where a practitioner plays different instruments to help someone come into a state of meditation and rest has helped me have space to process what has happened in my past, to learn how to heal from past traumas and abuse and learn how to move forward with what I want to do now.
When you talk about sound healing, is that employing like recorded music or do you play instruments in the class?
10:14 - I did a training where I was able to learn multiple different instruments. I curate a session for people where they'll be usually lying on their back. I'll walk around folks, and play instruments above them. These sound therapy sessions are where people are being exposed to frequencies that help them come into the state of rest and can be really healing for people who have experienced trauma and they're able to process and release within these sessions.
What has been the role of women of color in your healing, especially as you're trying to meet the challenges and overcome some of the ways in which they can kind of stop you?
11:08 - I'm super grateful for the women of color friends that I have in Milwaukee. I'm super grateful for my Milwaukee community of just seeing how other friends have addressed challenges they've gone through, and I've just learned a lot about patience.
11:48 - I'm really grateful for online resources and other women who have shared with me and it's been a journey that I'm continuing to learn.
Are you vegan?
12:00 - I am not vegan.
12:17 - I've been trying to be really cognizant of what I eat and I'm working with a health coach right now and take note of what feels good for me and what doesn't and a lot of plant-based stuff for sure.
What do you hope for women of color?
12:33 - I think the biggest thing for myself and for the women of color that I'm surrounding myself with is for us to learn to trust ourselves and to listen to our bodies more.
13:02 - I read this quote the other day of, it was talking about how a woman becomes her best friend when she actually cares for her own health. And it was this beautiful moment of, I can be my own best friend. I can be that person who nourishes myself.
What are your hopes for the future in your own, Marquette's, the world?
13:26 - I hope that we can learn how to be free. Free to explore what we're excited about, what it means for us to be healthy beings, for us to be able to connect and love each other well.
What would you like our community to know about you and your journey?
14:45 - What's been most important is education, furthering my own education and supporting other people. Since I was a young girl, I wanted to be a teacher. And it's been really beautiful and fun for me to see how that's manifested in different ways and to the space I'm in now as a yoga teacher, guide.
15:11 - I'm always learning, taking new trainings, to be able to learn more about how to serve other people in a greater capacity.
If you had to give a tip or two to other women who may be sort of struggling to find that balance, what might you suggest they do or start with?
15:43 - Learning how to say no more. For me, I had to really sit down and look at my schedule and decide what was nourishing me when it came to social commitments, when it came to life responsibilities.
16:22 - Communicate to people clearly why I was saying no; this is the time in which I'm taking to care for myself, and also to be really patient.
What would your motto be?
17:57 - The word stillness comes to mind. I think the thing that's coming to mind for me right now is don't be afraid of being still. I think for so long I viewed stillness, equating it with this laziness or this lack of drive. And I found a lot of power in allowing myself to be, to sit with myself.
Contact Information:
Parisa Yoga Shala
http://www.marquette.edu/diversity/
Credits:
The Our Roots Say That We're Sisters Podcast series was recorded and produced by Podcast Town (www.podcasttown.net)
Join us for a transformative episode with Jayla Taylor, a resilient junior at Marquette University. As president of the Urban Scholars Program and a political science major, Jayla's journey is a beacon of strength and determination. Hailing from Milwaukee's diverse neighborhoods, Jayla proudly embraces her Black and Latina heritage, using it as a driving force for change. Her upbringing, steeped in Mexican and Black traditions, fuels her mission to break barriers.
Through leadership roles, Jayla fosters a sense of belonging for students of color, ensuring everyone finds their place at Marquette. Her story is a testament to the strength passed down through generations, with her mother and grandparents serving as guiding lights.
Jayla's initiatives, including MU Black Minds, aim to create a community where every student thrives, regardless of background. Tune in for insights on inclusivity, cultural strength, and uplifting the voices of tomorrow. Jayla's narrative encourages us to stand together, fostering kindness, open-mindedness, and unwavering support.
Episode Highlights:
12:13 - The first step is, of course, getting people of diverse backgrounds here. But the second step is making sure that they can be themselves and be comfortable and not feel just outcasted.
19:25 - Not having those resources to fall back on can really impact your experience that you're going to have and not being able to talk to anybody about any issues you're having or understanding why you feel a certain way towards a certain class, teacher, professor, and things like that is really important that we're having discussions with each other, so it's a you're not alone type of thing. And I think my biggest thing was if I didn't have a community around me, I would not be succeeding as well as I am now.
20:46 - I was given this opportunity, and it's important for me to make other people feel like they're also given an opportunity, and it also makes me feel good when I make somebody else feel important. And I think that just builds your community even more of people wanting to be around you, not having to be around you, and I wanted to be the role model around other students.
Interview
What's the story you'd like to share with us today?
01:24 - I'd love to share about my background growing up from the city, as well as more about my scholarship program and what that all entails.
How do you identify?
01:40 - I identify as Black and Latina. My mom is Mexican and my dad is Black, so, half and half.
Where do you come from?
01:50 - I've grown up on the south side of Milwaukee for the past 20 years.
What high school did you go to?
01:55 - I went to DSHA, Divine Savior Holy Angels. It's an all girls Catholic high school.
Tell us how you got on the path that you're on.
02:16 - It starts with my parents and my background. My mom is a first generation kind of citizen here. So, her growing up and upbringing was a little different than mine. None of my aunts, uncles or parents went to college. So, it was more of a high school graduation thing and then moving on to a family. But her main goal for all of us, me and my two older siblings, was always to go to college, get a career, and make sure we are doing what we love in life. But that just kind of motivated me to always kind of have a target on my back to push forward and find any opportunity I could. My dad also didn't go to college, so being a first generation kind of college student, they gave me the leeway to figure it out and navigate it all on my own.
03:59 - Luckily, I applied and just with all the things I was involved in and just by chance, I ended up getting a financial aid scholarship to go there, and we have a 100 percent college rate at my high school, so there was no question on whether or not I was going to college after DSHA, and I got a lot of opportunities, but Marquette provided me with a full tuition scholarship to be part of the Urban Scholars Program as a minority student, and that was something I definitely could not pass up.
What other support do they provide first gen and students of color?
05:36 - Their whole goal was to have us have advisors that looked like us in the program. Considering it only had been five previously, they only had one academic slash–not only an advisor–but he was also like the whole running of the program, just that one person. But when they upgraded us to 45 people, we got three more academic advisors that we were split between. And they were there, basically, we had to check in one on one just to see how we were adjusting, not only academically, but also just campus-wise.
06:25 - We did a lot of group retreats together, a lot of group activities together, because the whole point was that these people around you, your fellow students, fellow classmates, are your family here.
You have a bi-cultural identity. Which traditions did you follow or was there a mix of traditions? For instance, did you have a quinceañera?
06:58 - Basically, in our household, you can identify however you want to identify. It's not like a this or that type of thing. We ate both types of food. Like, maybe we'll have tacos one day, the next day you can have a burger for dinner. Like, there was no set in stone, but it was awesome because I got to look at both sides of my culture all the time. So, fitting in with one was difficult. But getting older, it just made me realize how much I appreciate both sides and how much other people don't get to experience that. And I have a big appreciation for any type of cultural backgrounds that people bring with them, just because of how different and specific they are.
How has this bi-cultural identity influenced the choices that you've made and the path that you've taken?
08:17 -It's honestly a big motivating factor for me. I've written a lot of papers and things about it because I'm a big promoter of use your culture to your advantage. Like, in an oppressed society, I think it's really important that if you are a person of color, you use the advantages that you have for good and you use the benefits that are given to you to go forward.
I've always promoted myself in a way that was like yes, I am these cultures and they're a huge part of me but I'm also breaking a lot of stereotypes and a lot of barriers to continue to excel in a lot of different areas.
How has the Mural Project resonated for you or in what ways has it?
10:03 - I think it's amazing just because I think a lot of time we promote or we talk about diversity or diversifying, but you don't actually see it. I think there's a difference between talking about things and then seeing them actually in person and having to face it. And I think it's also much more powerful because it's women.
10:39 - Seeing not only black, brown, and different colored women, but it's seeing a representation of yourself and then those around you, and the voices that are not getting heard as often or being promoted that you have nothing to do but face them and look at them, and see them and listen.
What impact do you see Marquette having on the lives of women of color?
11:03 - I think it can have a positive or a negative impact. I can't come and say like, "Oh, it's amazing and it's without struggles," because that just wouldn't be true. I've met a lot of amazing women in big, powerful positions at Marquette, which has been great, but it's also still a place where it's not as diversified as you would want to come in and see, and I think that's why it's so important to promote programs that are for different races and different backgrounds, because if you want this campus or this university to look a certain way, it needs representation.
That feeling that some students have, some faculty, and even one staff have of not quite feeling as though they belong or are welcome, is that strictly internal, something that they're bringing to the situation, or is there something about Marquette that creates those feelings?
12:44 - I think it can be a mix of both. Luckily for me, I went to a high school that was similar, diversity-wise, it was very similar. So, I had already experienced something like this, but I will say externally, like looking across and somebody says this is a PWI. You can tell. You can look across any classroom. You can look at any directory and you can tell that it's a predominantly white institution. Professor-wise, I would feel more comfortable going to a professor that looks like me or has a relatable story to me, and I've found many that are and are there to promote the connections that they bring to students of color, and there's a lot of programs.
13:43 - Internally, they're already feeling a sense of being different from everyone else. But then externally, if you're not seeing anybody else who looks like you, then it's just kind of furthering that insecurity within yourself.
How has the university impacted your sense of self-worth?
14:53 - It's impacted me just because any time that I felt insignificant or not as meaningful, I've had opportunities to go out in the community or I've had opportunities to give a speech to a group of people. With my leadership position being the president, I found such a self-worth type of thing because I was able to present this whole program. I represented it just in my one speech, what we encompass, what we embody.
You said your mother is your greatest inspiration. Who are some of the other women who have been inspirations for you?
16:06 - My grandma on my dad's side. They are like my other set of parents basically. They are so excited for me in anything I do. And I've actually had to talk about this before where it's amazing to have people, who succeed or not, they believe in you.
This year's forum, the theme really revolved around self-care, wellness, and healing, how do you understand, experience, or practice wellness and healing within our current context because there's so much stuff happening these days?
18:09 - There's a lot, and for me personally, it is hard to wrap my head around all the different initiatives, all the different feelings, all the different strategies you have, and things like that. And I've kind of been one of those people that I always like to talk first or get my point across, or kind of like get my hand in things, and I can say this is something that I've had to really sit back and like learn from other people, or go to events. I have a few friends who started their own club at Marquette, and it's called MU Black Minds, and it's a club specifically about self-care and mental health. And getting to go to that and knowing it was started by four African-American women, and they did it all there on their own, and they've had guest speakers, and they've had different program initiatives where we've simply wrote letters to ourselves, or this is the end of a school day and we came to learn more about mental health and things like that.
What impact do you hope to have on women of color, those coming behind you and those who have gone before you that might be looking back for some inspiration?
20:05 - I think my biggest thing is I'm everyone's biggest fan. I don't do the presidency thing so I can put it on a resume or I'm the president of this or I'm the president of that. That's just a bonus for me. I was in this position as well as a few other leadership positions in Marquette Student Government, NAACP, and just board member positions. I did that all because it just allowed me to promote the people that I'm around even more.
21:08 - The sophomores and freshmen under me, they're not that far apart in age for me. So, I don't pressure them into being like, "I know so much more than you." I really don't, but I'm here as your ally to let you know that I'm the person that you can talk to, find more stuff about, and reach out to because adults are busy.
What are your hopes for the future, your future, Marquette's future, the community we live in, the world?
21:11 - My hope is always, I, of course, want to somehow have one simple person in this program that I'm in remember me or simply the group of people that I was around and being the first group of 45 minority students, I'll be, of course, want to be a part of the group that was like, "Oh, you know, they did a lot here."
23:23 - And in the future, I, of course, want to teach. That is like my biggest thing is I love kids. And I think a lot of the initiatives we have at school is, why don't students know more about my background? Why don't they diversify? Why don't we have a diversity class?
What would you like our community to know about your journey?
24:33 - I think I would like my community to know that it doesn't end here. I think my biggest thing is I always just promote more positivity around me and other people. I think a lot of people need not only to learn from somebody, you can listen to a thousand things, but if you're going to get anything out of it, you got to be able to relate. So, hopefully they can just relate to being kinder to people, being more open to new stories, being more open to those around them, being more open to women, to people of color, to friends around you.
Contact Information:
http://www.marquette.edu/diversity/
Credits:
The Our Roots Say That We're Sisters Podcast series was recorded and produced by Podcast Town (www.podcasttown.net)
Sheena interviews Gadeer Ayesh, a trailblazing Neurosurgery Physician Assistant, first-generation Arab-American Muslim, and advocate for inclusivity. Gadeer's journey from a small-town school to Marquette University defied expectations, driven by her parents' immigrant experience and a determination to excel.
The passing of her grandfather due to limited healthcare access fueled her commitment to make a difference. Despite skepticism, she emerged as a beacon of representation for her culture and religion. Gadeer's involvement in a mural project at Marquette celebrating women of color showcases her advocacy for inclusivity.
She draws strength from her support system, considering her family and community as her true heroes. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience, authenticity, and a vision for an inclusive world!
Episode Highlights:
06:22 - It's really not fair that you have to represent an entire people but it is. A lot of people, especially like being at Marquette, they never encountered a Muslim before. They've never seen, they don't know what a hijab is. They don't know where Palestine is. And so just kind of being that spokesperson and embodying that in everything that I say and do, and all of my decisions. It catapults me into where I want to be and how I want to present myself.
12:43 - Each of my sisters is my therapist in a different way. I'm always able to be vulnerable with them. No judgments. Whether it's, I want to be a PA, but I don't know if I can get in, and them pushing me, striving me to be better.
18:22 - I struggled and it took a while to get to where I am today, but maybe the people after me, they don't have to go through that struggle. Maybe it'll be easier for them. The mentorship program, I would love to be a mentor.
Interview
What's the story you'd like to share with us today?
02:26 - I went to kind of a small town school, went to a private school where everyone's the same as me. They're all first generation Arab-American Muslims, so a little sheltered kind of growing up, and then I go to Marquette. Absolutely loved it. I met a lot of my super close friends there, but I learned who I was at Marquette, grew as a person, , and then became a PA, and here I am.
What set you on that path to becoming a PA?
04:50 - I learned early on that if I wanted to succeed, if I wanted to do what I wanted while looking the way I looked, it takes a little dedication, a little drive. It wasn't easy. There was a lot of pushback. There was a lot of people questioning, who I was and what I was doing there. Am I qualified? And so, that always pushed me.
What are some other ways that your identity has informed the choices that you've made in life?
05:57 - You look at me and you know exactly who I am potentially, and you've already formed judgments based on what I look like. So I am clearly Muslim. You see it by the hijab that I wear, and I embody kind of Islam in everything I do or say. And so, it's always on the forefront in terms of I'm representing myself, but I'm also representing my religion and my culture.
You've got a certain claim to fame. Which one of these are you?
07:05 - The one in the hijab. The one in the scarf.
How did you get to be a part of that and how did that make you feel?
07:13 - It's honestly the most surreal thing ever. I told you before my husband is my biggest kind of cheerleader and supporter and anybody he meets, "Did you know that my wife is on the wall? She's on the mural at Marquette. And it's like, "Oh, God, it's embarrassing."
You've referred to your husband several times. Were you married as an undergrad?
09:33 - We were not. No, but we actually went to Marquette together. We actually grew up together. He was living in Jordan for a while.
Who are your heroes or sheroes?
10:16 - It's the women in my life – my sisters, my mother, just the friends that I've made through EOP and through Marquette. We're still super close till this day, and we talk all the time. I mean, my sisters are absolutely amazing. They are mothers. They work. They have their own kind of accomplishments. And I always look to them no matter what for advice for kind of just needing to figure something out or just to look.
What role has vulnerability played in how your story has unfolded?
11:53 - Being vulnerable comes with the territory, honestly. If you are not vulnerable constantly in every decision you make, especially being first generation, being Arab, being Muslim, just not knowing what you're doing or where you're going, I make fun of myself all the time. And I say I'm in a constant state of imposter syndrome.
What role have your sisters, in terms of women of color, played in helping you navigate that vulnerability and rise to whatever challenges they've presented?
13:12 - There's that level of trust and that level of loyalty where I'm like, "I know I can be vulnerable with you and tell you what's going on in my heart or in my head, and there's no judgments. You're going to be there for me and you're going to help me throughout whatever struggle I'm going through, without kind of looking the other way, always having my back."
Practicing vulnerability in a safe space, has it made it easier for you to be vulnerable outside of those kinds of spaces?
13:40 - Yes and no. It's still difficult. It's easier to be vulnerable with the people that are closest to you. Growing up the way you do, you have hard experiences. Living under occupation and just kind of like sharing some traumatic experiences and just trying to navigate the world, you share a certain bond. But it also gives you a little bit of a harder shell.
What role has or what impact has Marquette had on who you are, where you're going, where you've been?
15:14 - It made me a stronger person because obviously most of the people that go to Marquette do not look like me. But it helped shape me into kind of the strong, kind of independent person that I am.
What impact do you hope to have on women of color? Those who are coming behind you, those who are walking with you, those who may have trod that path ahead of you.
17:41 - Women of color who have my back and who are there to help me and support me, I'm hopeful. I want to be that person for others. I want to be able to empower other people, or they know that they could reach out to other people who would be able to help them because not everybody is as blessed. I just want other women of color to be empowered.
What are your hopes for the future, your future, the future of Marquette and just the future in general for our world?
19:52 - I don't want my daughters to have to shrink back or feel, not ashamed, but like feel different. "Oh, I'm wearing a scarf. There's no one else in my entire kind of cohort, who wears a scarf," and feel uncomfortable with that. They should love their faith, love God, and love who they are, no matter where they're at, and just feel comfortable in their own skin. The sky's the limit for my daughters and for everybody else, for all future generations.
What would you like the community, and when I say community, it could be Marquette's community or community that you identify with, to know about you and your journey?
21:14 - Vulnerability is difficult, but I like to be vulnerable. I like to talk to people and I always strive to be the best version of myself. And I hope I can embody that. I hope I can make my family proud, my friends proud, Marquette proud, too. Because Marquette made me who I am today.
Contact Information:
http://www.marquette.edu/diversity/
Credits:
The Our Roots Say That We're Sisters Podcast series was recorded and produced by Podcast Town (www.podcasttown.net)
Sheena interviews Rachelle Shurn, the Assistant Engagement Director of University Advancement at Marquette University. Rachelle shares her story of how she and her husband left their small predominantly black city to make a fresh start in Milwaukee. Rachelle's journey led her to Marquette, where she is now dedicated to impacting women of color both on and off campus. Rachelle describes her role as being intrinsic in diversity, which she developed while working in a similar position at a community college. She shares how working with that college helped her to understand inequities in society and opened her eyes to issues surrounding diversity and inclusion. This journey has informed and sharpened her diversity lens.
The conversation shifts to the mural project on Marquette's campus, and both Sheena and Rachelle discuss the impact of this initiative. The mural is an impressive piece of art that Rachelle says is open to interpretation, and every time she looks at it, she sees something different. Rachelle also discusses her role as an alumni programmer for women's basketball at Marquette. She shares her goals of creating a following for women's basketball and building a fan base for the team. She spoke about how the women's basketball program must work harder than the men's program to attract fans, but the team is making strides, and they're getting better.
Listen in as Rachelle shares her passion for impacting women of color and bridging gaps at Marquette University. Discover how she's making a positive mark and leaving a strong legacy for future generations. Tune in to be inspired!
05:57 - So because I work closely with our ethnic groups as well as our national Board of Directors and women's basketball, and as a proud black woman, that diversity lens is intrinsic in what I do.
11:30 - The impact on me personally is I feel that I have been given an opportunity to be a voice, to help bridge gaps, to build relationships, and to just leave a mark.
13:17 - I look for nuggets in people, whether they're famous or whether it's the person that I'm sitting next to in church, a positive encounter or words of wisdom or sometimes not saying anything, just watching and observing how you engage with others. Those are the qualities in women that inspire me.
Interview
01:57 - Rachelle Shurn shares how she and her husband took a leap of faith in moving to Milwaukee without jobs.
We come from a very small, predominantly black city, Benton Harbor, Michigan, and just saw ourselves fitting into the Milwaukee community. We did not have jobs. We literally stepped out on faith, believing that this would be a great move for us.
What has been your journey working in the area of diversity and inclusion?
04:37 - My steps were just ordered unbeknownst to me. So the part-time job that I had at the community college supporting their version of a Provost for diversity, I would go with him into organizations to help him facilitate diversity training. And that's really when my eyes started to open around inequities that are happening and that some organizations or people they don't know, it's not always coming from a place of harm. But if you don't know that you're making racist remarks or that you're not being inclusive when you're sitting around the table.
What is your role in bringing more attention and support to women's basketball and the strides they have made in building a following?
07:00 - So my role with women's basketball is around alumni programming. So part of what my personal goal with women's basketball is to continue to build a following. I always say that men's basketball sells itself. It just does. We have to work a little bit harder for women's basketball, particularly at Marquette. We know that there are programs that are selling out arenas and have a huge fan following, but if you haven't experienced a game, you're missing out on the excitement of women's basketball. So basically monthly during the season, we host pregame receptions at the annex. It's just an opportunity to connect with fellow alumni, staff, and parents over a meal before going to the game.
What is your description of the mural project and how do the vibrant colors speak to you as a woman?
09: 14 - I look at the mural quite often, and every time I look at it, I see something different, which I think speaks to how beautiful and amazing the piece is. It's not a one and done. And it reminds me of a family photo. A daughter, a mother, a grandmother. I can see all of that in the photo. I also like the vibrant colors which speak to me as a woman, just being vivid and kind of bold and out there in some regards. That's how it really resonates with me. I can see myself in any of those women.
What is your reflection on the impact of Marquette University on you and the opportunity it has given you to make a difference?
11:30 - The impact on me personally is I feel that I have been given an opportunity to be a voice, to help bridge gaps, to build relationships, and to just leave a mark so that when I'm no longer in this role, someone can say, well, I remember having a conversation with Rachelle.
Who are the women who have been an inspiration to you?
13:17 - I look for nuggets in people, whether they're famous or whether it's the person that I'm sitting next to in church, a positive encounter or words of wisdom or sometimes not saying anything, just watching and observing how you engage with others. Those are the qualities in women that inspire me.
What would you like our community to know about you and your journey?
21:43 - My journey is healing. Sometimes there's gravel. Sometimes I get off course, but I always find my way back because of, again, just beautiful people in my life, in my circle, and my path is ever changing. And I welcome that. Yeah, it's all of those things. It's not packaged in a beautiful gift box with a beautiful bow on top. It's messy because life is messy, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
Contact Information:
Rachelle Shurn,
Engagement Officer
(414) 288-4765
[email protected]
http://www.marquette.edu/diversity/
Credits:
The Our Roots Say That We're Sisters Podcast series was recorded and produced by Podcast Town (www.podcasttown.net)
Sheena interviews Julie Aleman and Wendy Perez. They both come from Latino and Mexican American backgrounds, respectively. Julie's goal was to help her family back home understand that limitations can be overcome with determination, while Wendy wanted to set an example for other people coming from underrepresented communities. In 2021, as freshmen, they started "Community. Books. You", a free textbook lending program at Marquette University which has since collected 400 books through donation drives as well as donations by faculty members and peers on campus.
They share how the mural resonates with them because it shows representation for women of color like themselves. It also serves as a reminder that cultures can be appreciated even when abroad or overseas studying or interning and that they can achieve great things with hard work and determination no matter their background or culture.
Tune in to hear more about the impact of Marquette University on women of color and discover how each woman's sense of self-worth has been impacted by being part of the community at Marquette due to support systems such as first-gen resources or words from affirmation from peers on campus. Listen to their powerful stories that inspire others to break out of their comfort zone and visualize the future they want.
Episode Highlights
11:48 - Seeing the mural really shows a lot of representation. Also, I see myself in the women that are there in the picture and in the painting. I really like how they all come from different backgrounds, yet we're all united. We're all one. We're all here on Marquette's campus and making a difference, and just how empowering they are, too. I think learning about different cultures is really important to me.
17:48 - I feel like there's more open spaces or safe spaces for minorities to talk. We all could improve. We just need that, and then just understanding each other, respecting and proudly taking decisions where nobody will be hurt just because they're saying how they feel, no matter how they say it.
22:54 - Having that support system really serves as an inspiration for me because I want to be that support system for other people, and just checking in with people to make sure that they are okay.
Interview
What stories would you like to share with us today?
01:48 - My little story is that when I came here, I came with just a goal, and I'm almost finishing with a lot more. But I initially wanted to help my Puerto Rican family to understand that limitations are just those that are in your head.
03:22 - I took a class in high school that was an intro to business class, and I really loved it. But I was a little bit intimidated about going into the field, just due to the stigma of business people. And so, that kind of made me hesitant a little bit, but I knew business was the route that I eventually wanted to go into.
How did you meet and become friends?
04:19 - Wendy complimented my shirt or I complimented her shirt. And then I noticed she speaks Spanish and I was like, "Are you Latina? Do you speak Spanish?" Because I was really looking for people to speak Spanish because my English was really limited at that moment.
04:40 - I think I complimented your shirt in the bathroom, and from there, it just sparked and I think you mentioned that we should get to know each other more in the basement of O'Donnell.
How have your identities informed the choices that you've made thus far?
05:46 - Everything that I do mostly is driven because I want to help people. And I do it just because that's my sort of happiness. I feel good doing it. The decision that I made just coming here came from that because I wanted to be an example for other students to learn.
06:58 - I realized that I wanted to set an example and represent my community, but also show other people that are from underrepresented communities that anything is possible and working hard, you can definitely get there. Also, being first gen has influenced a lot of our choices, I'd say for both of us.
How long have you been doing "Community. Books. You"?
08:35 - We launched it – I didn't know, when you guys launched the podcast in 2021. It's been a process.
08:45 - We competed in the Brewed Ideas Challenge, which was a Shark Tank-style competition that is held at Marquette University.
How has the mural resonated for you?
11:11 - Looking at this mural, it just feels like I'm not the only one person or woman of color.
11:52 - I see myself in the women that are there in the picture and in the painting. And I really like how they all come from different backgrounds.
What has been Marquette's impact on women of color
14:33 - I feel, what I can say for facts, we still need more diversity. But we also need the resources that come from not just the diversity. I feel that when we do that, we will be able to connect with these different people.
15:51 - I think Marquette has impacted the lives of other women of color in leadership roles. And a lot of women of color at Marquette that I've met are very passionate about certain topics, and I really enjoy that community. I think, for sure, having that community of women of color on campus really empowers these women of color to continue striving for more.
Being at Marquette, how has that impacted your sense of self-worth?
18:29 - It has improved my self-worth coming to Marquette, being first gen as we touched on, is just very challenging on navigating the different roles and obstacles that come up. But having a support system, personally for me, and resonating with other people that are students of color on campus has increased my self-image, too.
21:09 - Having those kinds of supports really make me think about myself and see how worthy I am, how much society needs me, not because of my journey, but because of the things that I'm discovering about myself that I can use to contribute to society to represent women of color, people of color, but also Latinos.
What women of color have served as inspirations for you?
22:36 - I would say my mom, because she's just very hardworking. She's caring. She always calls me about how my homework is doing, just like very small details on how life is going. So, I really appreciate that and having that support system really serves as an inspiration for me because I want to be that support system for other people.
24:46 - It will be my grandma. She passed away like four years ago. And even when I didn't grow up close to her because I used to live in Puerto Rico and she in Dominican Republic. I feel like every time that I went over there, she always had something good to say.
On self-care and wellness, what are some of the challenges for you in terms of addressing those for yourself and what are some of the things that you do?
26:59 - I work two jobs. I work at Comms Vice-President. I also work at the desk. Having meetings are really time-consuming plus classes, which is fine. I feel like I'm used to it already. I can read faster, type faster, and ask faster, too. And I feel really confident about that.
28:42 - For me, time management and the aspect of, especially last year was a really busy year for me, having a job, internships, classes, building "Community. Books. You," and also trying to be involved on campus with different organizations. Managing that was a challenge but I overcame that with learning the skills that I have learned throughout college and also being first gen, just how you always have to be on your feet. You have to think quick.
What impact do you hope to have on women of color, both on Marquett's campus and once you're out there in the world?
32:56 - I just want to share my story by just keep going and see how this will affect or impact women of color as a student, as a person, and also as a professional.
34:46 - Also, impacting women of color through my story and sharing my story, resonating with women of color. I hope to impact them. And with that, showing that it really starts from within and from your environment, that you have to know yourself from within and really get comfortable with yourself.
What do you hope for the future of Marquette as well as your own future?
38:41 - Especially resources if we are bringing more people from different backgrounds, so everyone can feel included and spaces where everyone can talk. Leaders that represent.
41:09 - I do believe that there are a good amount of resources at Marquette that target first generation students and students of color, but there is a lack of awareness, and especially for the students to learn about these resources and coming into college, too, so making sure that these resources are really pushed out there.
What do you want the Marquette community to know about you and your journey?
42:01 - I want Marquette to know that they make a strong woman of color that will represent and will be a great leader.
43:27 - One message that I would want to display is that for Marquette students to use campus and college as a safety net in a way, and that this is a place where you might feel challenged at first, but that's good, and finding a community to help you feel at home or just feel more comfortable. But taking those strides of discomfort and just really trying a lot during college because there's so many organizations out there. There's so many resources. The professors are very welcoming and supportive if you ask them for help and really knowing how to ask for help, too, is important in college and using your networking, opportunities, getting involved, and using your resources.
Contact Information:
http://www.marquette.edu/diversity/
Credits:
The Our Roots Say That We're Sisters Podcast series was recorded and produced by Podcast Town (www.podcasttown.net)
The podcast currently has 31 episodes available.