Recently with my host office, I have been working on an affirmative action testimonial and assisting with NHPI Equal Pay Day planning on top of continuing my work on survey data analysis. Analyzing the data collected from the Sacramento Powerbuilding Survey into thematic groups has been a truly meaningful experience. As I comb through the responses submitted by the community, I am able to find patterns and get a sense of what my Islander community finds important and what they need. Not only am I gaining valuable data analysis skills and experience that I can utilize at future jobs, but I also get the privilege of being a part of this process of advocacy, outreach, and organizing for the PI community. I am witnessing the power of amplifying others’ voices. I am captivated by these diverse ideas and the array of backgrounds and stories. Each survey response represents its own individual with their own cultural background, struggles, and ideas that deserve to be heard. By meticulously analyzing the data, I contributed to revealing patterns that would aid EPIC in tailoring its strategies to address the unique challenges faced by the NHPI community.
In the midst of these activities, I was asked to take on another task: writing an affirmative action testimonial for EPIC’s website. This experience provided a reflective pause in my fast-paced week. As I recounted my academic journey, I recognized the privileges I was given through race-conscious admissions while also acknowledging the systemic obstacles that many students may face after this Supreme Court ruling. Writing the testimonial deepened my understanding of the importance of affirmative action in providing equal opportunities and fostering diversity. It was a humbling exercise that underscored the significance of advocating for fairness and representation.
Reflecting on my journey at EPIC, I am struck by how interconnected these experiences are. From analyzing survey data to creating graphics and writing a testimonial, each activity contributed to the larger mission of empowerment and advocacy. I've learned that amplifying marginalized voices requires a multi-faceted approach that combines data-driven insights, visually compelling narratives, and powerful personal stories.
As I conclude my eighth week at EPIC, I carry forward a renewed commitment to social change and empowerment. The organization's dedication to uplifting underserved communities has left an indelible mark on me. My time at EPIC has reinforced the belief that collective efforts, no matter how seemingly small, contribute to the broader tapestry of transformation.
In closing, this week has been a transformative chapter in my journey. It has deepened my understanding of community advocacy, data analysis, graphic design, and the importance of reflective storytelling. EPIC's ethos of empowerment has ignited a passion within me to continue advocating for positive change, both within communities and on a broader scale. I am immensely grateful for the experiences and opportunities this internship has provided, and I look forward to carrying these lessons with me as I embark on future endeavors.
The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author and do not reflect the views or positions of CAUSE or the CAUSE network.
Written by Olivia Diaz Anderson, Leadership Academy 2023 Intern.
The CAUSE Leadership Academy (CLA) for students is a nine-week, paid, internship program that prepares college undergraduates to lead and advocate for the Asian Pacific Islander community on their campuses and beyond.