Vision and Passion
Why am I an Advocate? Because it's written on my heart. That's the simplest answer. Since I was very young I have felt a strong sense of duty towards protecting and supporting women. This probably came from both my mother's feminist messages turning my head, and my own innate curiosity and passion. My name is a version of the name Alexander, which means "Protector of mankind". My mom used to tell me that my name, Alexandria, means "Protector of womankind". I have since evolved my definition to "Protector". I like thinking of myself as a warrior. I hold this as a precious part of my identity. Warrior, Healer, Mother... Advocate.
My journey as a children's advocate unfolded over time. Through my journey through childhood and adolescence, I wasn't ok with how I was sometimes treated, or how my friends were treated, within the framework of family, school, and the world. As I grew older through adulthood, educated myself on many subjects, had more experiences, and then became a mother myself- my heart exploded. I had certain experiences through my pregnancy, birthing, and post birth that I now know are not ok. I didn't have enough knowledge then, but now I know and I want to empower all mothers and families to have more choice and knowledge. As a mother I have seen and heard current views and perspectives on children that are not ok. I know I am probably preaching to the choir, since you are all advocates and lovers of this career field. I am thrilled to be in this community, no matter how temporary, and to be influenced by all of your voices and ideas. With each class, with each discussion post, I am transformed in some way by hearing you.
The Early Childhood field, in particular, needs strong advocates. Children, I believe, are the most silenced and unheard demographic. They virtually have no voice. They are the most vulnerable of us all. They rely on adults for everything- they need our protection, they need to be respected, and they deserve rights. Families deserve accessibility to ALL information. People deserve to know their rights, options, and most up-to-date information. When I was a new mother I was exhausted going through all the information that I didn't even know existed. It was overwhelming and it was hard to find proper support. Since this is the world today, nothing will change unless we change it. That is how it works. People need to connect, collaborate, enlighten, and yell very very loudly :)
Goals
- To learn from and be enlightened by each of my cohort's and professor's wisdom, experience, and vision.
- To dig deeper into my vision for advocating for Children's Rights and parent empowerment, so I can go into the world with specific purpose and intention.
- To research as much as possible about current initiatives in the world right now.
I love the fact that your mother shared the meaning behind your name. I remember choosing my daughters and the meaning was very important to me. I also believe in empowering moms. I have had a lot of conversations about judgmental people and my friend asked how do I do what I do and not judge people. I believe that we need to try and understand everyone first before we make assumptions about their decisions. Education is power. That is what I try to do for the families I work with. Some of them don't know anything different than what they were taught from their parents.
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