I have always known that one day all of the dark times I have been through would prove not to be experienced in vain, but used as a tool to help others near and far. I've always had a gift for telling stories and have used my talent for writing to touch the hearts of those who are willing to listen.

I am no stranger to advocating for marginalized people..

In my community I started an annual Juneteenth Cook-out. I've spoken about race while working at Head Start in the classroom. I've preached at my church about the power of loving all people no matter our differences. And as a PTA board member of my daughter’s school I work with diverse families and understand their struggles because most of them are my own.

This project is a passion and it is not just for me but for those who feel they don't have a place in our community, as well as for those people who wish to help create a more equitable community but don’t know where to begin.  And for my family this is a chance to finally be seen and for our struggles to be acknowledged.  How much progress has Clackamas County really made in being “progressive"?  This project will pop the bubble of reality for many people but I believe that in uncomfortableness comes change and if I have the chance to change even one heart, there's nothing that can stop me.