Jhina Alvarado
Tell us about you:
I am public school teacher, artist, mother of twins, and a wife in SF. I try and show my children how to be generous, kind, and to help people whenever possible.
What are the 2-3 biggest changes you want to see in the world?
I want to see my Black children and all other Black and Brown children treated like their lives matter and that they can rise to greatness. I want to see education valued and a significant amount of money put into our public schools.
How do you act to do your part to build the world you want to see?
I painted a series of Black children, titled “They Could be Heroes”, challenging us to see Black children differently than what society currently sees them as. I painted commissions and donated 100% of proceeds (over $11,000) to families affected by COVID-19. I am currently doing a huge school supplies and book drive for our most vulnerable students in SF who, without a physical school to attend, are at a disadvantage because of a lack of resources. I am a public school high school teacher and try to empower my students to be their best selves.
What do you believe we’re collectively learning in 2020?
There are a ton of inequities in this country and this pandemic highlights it even more. We are seeing who steps up to help our communities and who instead widens the gaps. We are learning that as a community we can move mountains.
What inspired you to first step into action?
Taking action helps with me anxiety over feeling like I don’t have control over what is happening around us. By doing what I can to help my community, I feel like at least I am making a small difference. If we all make a small difference, the impact could be huge.
How did you do it?
I looked at what I could offer, and in my case, it was my painting skills. I offered up affordable commissions for $200 (my paintings normally start at $1000) and posted all over social media. The response was huge. With the supplies drive, I used social media again and posted on all of the mom’s groups I was in. The response was overwhelming.
What was it like for you?
It feels good to know that so many people want to help support whatever fundraisers/ supplies drive I have. With all of the negativity we see, it’s nice to know there are good people out there.
What advice do you have for folks who want to step into advocacy but aren't sure how?
Find a cause that is close to your heart and then figure out the skills that you have that promote or help that cause.
Contact Info: Instagram: jhina_alvarado; Website www.jhinaalvarado.com