Deirdre is a special education teacher working with third grade students in Prospect Heights, living in Brooklyn New York. Most of her experience comes from working with kids with severe autism, and she’s been advocate for all learners, including kids with dyslexia, intellectual disabilities and emotional disabilities.Deirdre believes that the Filipina voice needs to be elevated. While she does admire the beauty queens that have elevated Pinay representation in the world, it is important for Deirdre to encourage other Filipina women to take on bigger positions.Deirdre is a candidate in the race for City Council in Brooklyn, District 35. If elected, Deirdre will be the first Pinay to represent New York City.In this episode, we learn about what led her to her work in special education and what led to her run for office. We discuss the global pandemic of Covid19 and her lens as an educator, and the effects it has on education, students, elections, small businesses and ultimately mental health. She talks about demystifying discrimination against asian Americans, and what we can learn from as a society and country from the disparities being highlighted.Deirdre closes off with 3 messages: to her students as an educator, to her community & city as a candidate and to Filipinas and anyone who can use encourage words and strength in this time.
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