Lisa Varon

What is the biggest change you want to see in the world?

The biggest change we need is an end to institutional racism. This can only be done with a redistribution of wealth and power. Institutional racism is at the intersection of all things inequity related but not limited to: equitable access to housing, quality education, workforce development opportunities, healthcare, and the prison industrial complex. In order to achieve this, folks who are in power need to be quiet, listen and raise the voices of currently oppressed folks when making decisions that will impact their lives.  These voices are mostly non-existent at decision making tables, thus perpetuating the inequity that those who have privilege will continue to enjoy. 

How do you act to do your part to build the world you want to see?

I make room for other voices by knowing when to step back and let others lead. I’m not afraid to share a perspective even if it will be unpopular. I learn about my limits and use my strengths to be effective and focused. I read about various perspectives and experiences.  I listen intently when talking with content experts – i.e. leaders of their own communities. I continue to check myself- and my privilege- when making decisions and acknowledge that I still have more work to do.

What do you believe we’re collectively learning in 2020?

Enough is enough. It is not- nor has it ever been- okay to turn a blind eye to systemic oppression.  It cannot be ignored. Folks are at their breaking point and everyone needs to LISTEN instead of judge.  If there was a real acknowledgement of wrongdoing in this country, everyone could better focus on solutions.  Too many people are not willing to accept that they are part of the problem or that there even is a problem.  

What advice do you have for folks who want to step into advocacy but aren’t sure how?

Start with figuring out what you care about most and unpack why. Learn more about it-  what’s already being done to address it and what opportunities there are to learn from (not serve or “help”) folks who are being impacted by those issues. Having the privilege to “learn about” racism as opposed to having to live with it daily is real. Carry that with you and understand that exchanges are mutual and should not be one person giving to/”helping” one another, but rather sharing access to resources. Lastly, don’t ever accept it when someone says “it can’t be done…this is how things are and how they have always been” – that’s rarely true.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-varon-59b5814/