Photo by Cameron Moore
Erin Dury
I have dedicated my entire career to the nonprofit sector. I know the nonprofit sector is a key player in creating real & radical systemic change. However, it is also true that harm is being conducted at the hands of the sector and the people leading it. Both, and. This inspires me to work with and in the sector to ensure we truly live out the values we promote.
I love jumping into the conversations & addressing the questions of how we can do better to serve our communities. It is critical that we are always looking outside of the traditional means of problem-solving in order to create sustainable solutions.
I have witnessed, and been culpable of, white people coming in with all the ideas on how to “fix” something, without ever listening to the people who are most directly impacted by the systems we are working to change. This model of “serve” is a manifestation of the white savior complex that cannot be overlooked.
At the same time, there are many nonprofits centered on the community voice and grounded in their own values. This is how we create the lasting change we seek because it authentically manifests systematic change.
In order to see our values come to fruition we must stay nimble and curious. Through anti-racist centered and collective work, we can achieve the visions we hold.