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Reflection on a Lifetime of Activism: From Saving a Lawn to Championing Human Rights

Jun 20, 2024

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From my earliest memories, the instinct to protect and advocate for what I believed was right has driven my actions. It all began when I was just a freshman at Roosevelt High School in Des Moines. The school's majestic front lawn, a beautiful piece of nature that had remained unblemished for 60 years, was under threat. The administration proposed turning it into baseball and soccer practice fields. At the age of 15, I knew there was something wrong with this plan. That front lawn was more than just grass; it was a symbol of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. It was a place that students found peace in a school with more than 1,000 students. I thought it was worth protecting. And it turned out many people agreed with me.

Determined to save it, I embarked on my first crusade. I called the press, organized a petition (and got 650 signatures), rallied fellow students, and our collective voice grew louder and stronger. The school eventually backed down, and nearly 40 years later, that front lawn, with the 1924 school building as its backdrop, remains one of the crown jewels of Des Moines. This early victory ignited a lifelong passion for activism.

In college, my focus shifted to LGBTQIA+ rights. As head of the Gay People's Union and publisher of the Gay Hawkeye newsletter, I organized campus protests and pride celebrations. I also founded the Spectrum Gay/Straight Alliance, creating a space for dialogue and support. I facilitated support groups for students and university staff who were coming out.

But my activism wasn't limited to LGBTQIA+ issues; I participated in clinic defense activities for the Emma Goldman Women's Health Clinic, protecting clients seeking health care from anti-abortion protesters.


My work for LGBTQIA+ rights was recognized with an appointment to the University President's Diversity Committee, which was still a pretty groundbreaking idea in the 90's.



When the University of Iowa's Foreign Language House, a cherished haven for language lovers and many LGBTQIA+ students, was threatened with closure, I couldn't stand by. Leading a group of residents, we attended the Board of Regents meeting and successfully argued to save this special refuge. My role in student government furthered my advocacy for student rights. When flooding led to the cancellation of summer graduation ceremonies (where many foreign families had already planned to fly in for their loved ones' graduation), I organized an alternative ceremony, securing funding and even convincing the dean of the graduate college to hand out diplomas. I gave the commencement speech on behalf of student government and used the example of the university's unjust, insensitive decision to inspire people to work for justice and fairness, even in the face of huge organizations like the university.


My activism extended into my corporate life in Europe. As a member and chairperson for many years of Personnel Committees, the legally mandated employee rights body within large companies, I fought tirelessly to save jobs, improve benefits, and defeat unfair policies. Each victory reinforced my belief in the power of collective action and the importance of standing up for what is right.


The murder of George Floyd marked a turning point in my activism. Driven by a desire to educate and create change, I started a podcast with a friend on decentering whiteness. This platform allowed us to discuss race and provide tools for meaningful conversations. My commitment to racial justice also led to my involvement in task forces within the Southwest Conference of the United Church of Christ, focusing on decentering whiteness and promoting racial equality. That work continues today.



Throughout my life, I've learned that activism is not just about the grand gestures but also about the daily commitment to justice and equity. From saving a high school lawn to championing LGBTQIA+ rights, advocating for employee benefits, and fighting for racial justice, each step has been a part of my journey to create a better, more inclusive world.


As I look back, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunities to make a difference and the incredible people I've met along the way. The fight for justice continues, and I remain dedicated to standing up for what is right, no matter the challenges.

Jun 20, 2024

3 min read

1

13

0

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