Conversations

"Book Talks with Colors of Influence" focuses on fiction and nonfiction works highlighting issues of diverse identities, equity and inclusion, social justice, Indigenous ways of being, and decolonial approaches to the struggle for liberation. The inaugural episode spotlights Eileen Tabios, author of the novel "The Balikbayan Artist."

In this episode, Maileen Hamto is joined by Lori Wojtowicz, author of “Listen to the Truth They Bring,” which compiles 22 interviews that Lori conducted with former students, who are now adults with children and grandchildren of their own. They offer their truths with unabashed honesty about what is needed to move toward social justice.

At the Washington Technology Industry Association, I curated quarterly webinars featuring scholars and experts who discuss strategies to integrate antiracist principles in organizational policies and practices.  This episode features Dr. Cheryl Matias, University of San Diego, who discusses strategies for "Confronting Whiteness in the Workplace." 

Dr. William A. Smith is the Chief Executive Administrator at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute (HMHI) in the School of Medicine and the Department of Psychiatry. In this webinar, he discusses his research and evidence regarding racial battle fatigue in workplaces.

Disability justice activist and independent filmmaker Tameka Citchen Spruce challenged traditional approaches to disability inclusion. The event emphasized the critical intersectionality of disability, focusing on principles such as collective access, interdependence, and racial equity.

WTIA hosted a meetup to highlight the lived experiences of high-achieving Latina/e/x leaders and professionals in technology and other industries. Our esteemed panel shared their experiences of triumph and struggle across industries. The panelists also shared advice about advocating for oneself while navigating organizational dynamics.