Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1302805
In order for our city to progress, it is important to continuously ask ourselves, who holds the power? Are we centering the voices of comfort or are we centering the voices of change? Power sharing transcends cross- cultural dialogue (intergenerational, interracial or even between industries). It means taking real steps to create access and equity. Sometimes those steps are backward to truly hear voices of those who have been marginalized. I want to see this community invest millions of dollars into neighborhoods, initiatives and businesses led by people of color – including emerging and grassroots leaders, differently abled and those from the LGBT+ community – in order to create that access and political imagination. If we say we want progress, progress has to be central to every step of the process. WHAT WOULD BE A MISSED OPPORTUNITY IN MACON? Ending the conversation of racial justice at the removal of the local monuments of oppression would be a missed opportunity. We ain't done yet! We have not even scratched the surface. Do we want comfort or do we want change? Do we want performance or do we want action? Do we want to invest in projects or do we want to invest in people? We would completely miss the opportunity to fully commit to all of our beautiful residents if we become satisfied or weary at this stage. WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT? In May 2019, I was awarded the distinguished honor of giving the Commencement Address at Wesleyan College. As a child from Anthony Homes, I attended summer camp on Wesleyan's campus courtesy of youth programming created by Catherine Meeks. It became a full circle moment to learn that that very programming was supported by the foundation where I now serve as executive director. It was humbling to be able to chat with young tweens Raniriah and Janiya, current students in the Aunt Maggies program. Twenty years ago, they were me. ANSLEY BOOKER, 35 Director, Office of Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives at Mercer University TELL US ABOUT YOUR JOB, AND WHY YOU CHOSE YOUR CAREER FIELD. The Office of Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives collaborates with departments, colleges and student organizations to provide an array of events, programs, educational trainings, workshops and webinars to increase awareness and understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusive practices in higher education and the wider community. This office also directly sponsors cultural celebrations throughout the year including Diversity Day and the MLK Living the Dream event. The overarching goal of the office is to expose the Mercer University community to various multicultural events, trainings, lectures and curricula to build, maintain and strengthen cultural competencies throughout the campuses while maintaining a community of respect, honor and heritage. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 | maconmagazine.com 37