How practice shapes belonging


Hi friend,

You know, narratives are commonly shaped through our daily interactions. What gets named consistently becomes normal. What is normal starts to feel central, and what feels central shapes our sense of belonging.

If blackness or any other part of your heritage has been pushed to the margins, this won't change unless you practice it.

Here are some examples:

  1. You can interrupt distancing language. Instead of brushing off comments that keep your sense of identity small, bring it back to the center of the conversation on purpose.
  2. Name your heritage fully. Make sure people know you're indigenous or black or Spanish. Also keep in mind that the order of these identity matters because it signals importance.
  3. Finally, update your internal story. Remind yourself about where you come from and why it's important to you.

You'll feel more like yourself if these ideas are accurate and aligned.

Inclusion isn't a slogan; it's a habit. And when habits are repeated over time, they can reshape our identity.

With care,

Jose 💛

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