Dr. Amber Banks shares her personal journey into activism and social justice work. She speaks on the complexities of trust, how personal and cultural experiences shape trust, and the intersection of trust with race and power. Dr. Banks discusses the importance of creating spaces where individuals can feel seen and heard and stresses the critical nature of repair in the trust-building process. Her storytelling also touches on the necessity of rest and self-care in sustaining activism and promoting resilience against systemic oppression.
Dr. Amber Banks is the inagural Vice President, Programs at Decolonizing Wealth Project. She is honored to lead DWP’s programs and support the direction of Liberated Capital’s funds. Dr. Banks is also the Founder & CEO of the Center for Trust and Transformation (CTT). CTT offers coaching, training, facilitation, and advising to social sector organizations focused on trust, healing, repair, and racial justice. Dr. Banks started her career as a Special Education teacher and is a seasoned social sector leader with over two decades of experience as an educator, researcher, coach, facilitator, advisor, grant maker, entrepreneur, and organizer.
What you'll learn in this episode:
01:13 Dr. Amber Banks' Journey into Activism
06:06 The Complexities of Trust
08:39 Trust in Professional and Educational Contexts
12:11 Cultural Nuances in Trust
21:04 Developing Trust in Oppressive Systems
29:04 Creating Spaces for Trust and Connection
34:44 Building Trust Between Police and Communities
36:32 The Importance of Rest in Social Justice Work
37:27 Healing and Boundaries
40:43 The Role of Community in Personal Wellbeing
45:59 Navigating Conflict in Beloved Communities
48:36 Sustaining Hope and Interconnectedness
56:49 A Message to Future Generations
59:31 Closing Remarks and Call to Action
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Social Justice Origin Stories is produced, edited, and hosted by Relando Thompkins-Jones.
