EMPOWERING VOICES

Dennis speaks about being Native and Hispanic in a world that often only sees the surface. As a tribal leader, he shares what it means to carry responsibility, open his door to real dialogue, and stay present for his community. His story is a reminder that real leadership happens through steady, everyday presence not just during moments of crisis.

Blue shares how his treatment shifts when his identity becomes visible. He talks about navigating public spaces, the emotional toll of being misunderstood, and the importance of support from others. His story sheds light on what it means to live authentically in a world that doesn’t always welcome it.

Nalani shares how moments of bias in school and life shaped her understanding of identity. She reflects on the power of family and the strength that comes from knowing your history. Her story speaks to the courage it takes to speak out and stay rooted.

A longtime public safety leader explains the difference between hate crimes and hate incidents. He shares why community response matters and how free speech can cross into real threats. The story offers a grounded look at where the law meets human impact.

Marquita shares a childhood memory that revealed how early racism is taught and how deeply it can take root. She compares discrimination to a hit-and-run, challenging people to respond with the same urgency. Her story is a call to be honest with children, confront inherited bias, and commit to doing the work every day.

A childhood memory reveals the first time Olivia noticed she was being treated differently because of her race. She recounts how the experience stayed with her long after it happened. Her story speaks to how early and quietly bias can show up.

Lilli talks about relationships, respect, and the need to treat disabled people as full human beings. He shares how kindness and connection make a real difference. His story is a reminder that everyone deserves to feel seen and valued.

Kristy explores what it feels like to be Jewish in environments where others may not understand the culture. It’s about discomfort, pride, and the balance between staying quiet or speaking up. Through small moments, the speaker shows how identity shapes presence in everyday spaces.

Katrina opens up about parenting her daughter, Charlotte, and how her perspective has changed. She no longer explains or apologizes for who her daughter is. Instead, she leads with pride and challenges others to see people, not conditions.

Gina reflects on the quiet, everyday ways she was made to feel different growing up in a mostly white community. She explains how backhanded comments and cultural erasure shaped her view of herself. Her story is about recognizing those moments and learning to speak honestly.

A trans woman with autism reflects on surviving depression and suicidal thoughts while growing up in Chico. She speaks honestly about isolation, internal struggles, and the journey to self-acceptance. Her story is also one of finding therapy, support, and the will to stay.