Championing The Unheard: Addressing Racial Inequity
Original Program date: August 21, 2020
A civically responsible individual recognizes himself or herself as a member of a larger social fabric and therefore considers social problems to be at least partly his or her own. Civic minded individuals promote the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes and take action when needed.
Secily Wilson is often asked, “How did you go from broadcast news to the nonprofit sector?” Her answer is simple. “The transition wasn’t a choice. Sometimes you are pushed into your purpose.“ After experiencing a series of unexpected life adversities, Secily’s life quickly fell apart. Her favorite quote is, “In order to find yourself, you must lose yourself in the service of others.” She says, “The philanthropic bug bit me. My gifts gave me the opportunity to merge my profession with my passion; “Service above self.” Click here to purchase Secily’s book!
When she went to college, Cecile Scoon realized her own parents were relegated to sitting at “the back of the bus.” It drove her decision to become a Civil Rights attorney and social activist. The inability to see or to diminish the accomplishments of Black co-workers is something she has heard far too many times as she takes depositions in her employment discrimination cases involving race and gender.
Chris King realized the inequity in our education system. He founded the Elevation Scholars Program with the focus on educational inequality in the United States, primarily in Central Florida. The goal is to prepare high-achieving students from low-income families for acceptance into the nation’s most selective colleges and universities and to walk with them through college graduation.
Join in on this panel discussion moderated by Secily Wilson to hear how Cecile and Chris saw a need and took action – and hear how you can too!
