It's Time for Change in Our Communities by Kimberly

It's Time for Change in Our Communities by Kimberly - December 2019 Scholarship Essay

Within weeks of attending the University of California, Berkeley, I became Programming Coordinator for an organization called Rising Immigrant Scholars through Education (R.I.S.E), a student run organization that promotes collective empowerment of undocumented students at UC Berkeley. As Programming Coordinator, I work closely with Core Coordinators to create a cooperative and welcoming environment for undocumented students. Although I am considered a U.S citizen, I am a passionate advocate and support system for the undocumented community. As a family member of a DACA (Deferred Action for Child Arrivals) recipient, I strongly believe in ensuring empowerment, as well as taking part in change for our communities.

Throughout my time as Programming Coordinator, I have immersed myself in different spaces involving a variety of social, racial, and political issues undocumented communities face. As many are aware, a couple weeks ago, the Supreme Court heard arguments on the legality of DACA, an American immigration policy that allows for some individuals who were brought to the U.S as a child the opportunity to obtain a legal work permit. During this time, R.I.S.E hosted a “Know Your Rights” training presentation by the East Bay Community Law Center (EBCLC) legal staff. Through this presentation, many questions and concerns regarding DACA were answered, information on the aim of DACA, and possible outcomes of the Supreme Court hearings. Many students seemed as if they were confused, scared, and worried about the possible outcomes that would occur in regards to the DACA hearings. At this moment, the only thing in my thoughts at the moment was being supportive of all students in which I was sharing this space with. I’ve become more aware of issues that many people face, but are often not talked about.

Having the opportunity to support and share space with the R.I.S.E community has allowed me to grow as a person. As I’ve become more knowledgeable on issues many communities face through this organization, it has inspired me to get involved in providing resources to many students. Being open-minded about how others may be feeling, and always helping others is something that I’ve ensured through my time in the R.I.S.E space. Being able to plan upcoming events has always been the highlight of my experience because I'm able to be part of creating projects that make an impact on many students at Cal. This opportunity allows me to create a difference in the lives of many undocumented students that may feel isolated or lonely through their educational experience.