Empowering Communities Through Advocacy and Education by Layla

Empowering Communities Through Advocacy and Education by Layla - January 2024 Scholarship Essay

In a world that continuously strives for equity and global peace, it has become evident that achieving these ideals is unrealistic. Influencing change requires addressing all the harmful stereotypes, norms, and barriers that separate humanity besides physical characteristics and self-identities. People often hide their authentic selves fearing rejection into society's mold– a mold that, in recent years, has been nullified providing a sense of unity; a utopia many dream of. By acknowledging the unattainable goal of global equity, community education opportunities can play a role in the awareness and empathy of underrepresented issues, helping individuals recognize those who may not fit society's molds, creating a platter of unique identities worldwide.
During the summer breaks of my freshman and sophomore years, I was selected to participate in an 8-week leadership program with the Ohio Center for Sex Education to create a closer relationship with my community and improve my leadership skills. This decision challenged my perspectives, opening my eyes to the health disparities of marginalized groups, specifically those affected by reproductive and LGBTQ-related injustices. Understanding the hidden prejudices based on bodily rights, gender, and sexual identity gave me a unique perspective on the challenges marginalized communities face in accessing proper care in the United States. Volunteering as a peer educator in the program fueled my commitment to use education to enforce collaboration and advocacy within my community to teach others about the importance of valuing the qualities many embody to promote inclusivity and equity for marginalized groups.
Collaboration with other participants throughout the program allowed me to deliver presentations on sexual orientation, identities, and reproductive anatomy to inner-Columbus high school classes. A vital aspect of these presentations was taking an individualistic approach to students about their view of societal transparency. Learning how the student's backgrounds and experiences shaped their perspective on groups taught me some valuable lessons. It's essential to recognize that everyone isn't supposed to understand someone else's identity fully; this expectation is unrealistic and not our place. Instead, the key lies in empathy, recognizing that diverse experiences contribute to individuality and that everyone's unique qualities can be enhanced by appreciating one's differences and fostering an environment of respect.
Having the privilege to advocate for underserved communities beyond making presentations encouraged me to transfer this passion into future endeavors. I can transfer my passion into my future by participating in student-led organizations to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in college. Innovating solutions such as projects or research around the community can help spread awareness about underserved issues, specifically those about healthcare. Addressing the significance of these issues can extend beyond just the community aspect but, more importantly, systemic challenges that demand change.
In conclusion, by utilizing the education that I've had the opportunity to foster and grow over the years, I can help teach others to create a more profound understanding of my mission of investing in education to enhance the quality of service for a community. I am dedicated to championing these values for the future of my chosen institution and highlight the impact that innovation and inclusion can have on communities. This summer program has strengthened my passion for acknowledging the significance of diverse experiences and appreciating individuality wholeheartedly. Together, we possess the potential to forge an equitable and inherently inclusive world where each unique quality is celebrated and deeply respected.