A Message from the Director
This August, we take time to reflect on and honor Intersectionality Awareness Month, National Civility Month, and National Wellness Month.
Intersectionality Awareness Month is grounded in the work of Columbia Law Professor and civil rights advocate Kimberlé Crenshaw, who coined the term intersectionality to describe how overlapping identities—such as gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, ability, and more—can compound experiences of discrimination. This month invites us to recognize and challenge the systems of oppression that affect our communities, and to uplift voices across all identities and experiences.
National Civility Month reminds us of the importance of treating others with empathy, compassion, and respect. It’s a call to return to the simple yet powerful principle of treating others as we would want to be treated—especially in times of difference or disagreement. Let’s use this month to practice kindness, embrace inclusivity, and care for ourselves and one another—today and every day.
National Wellness Month encourages us to turn care inward by prioritizing our own physical, mental, emotional, and social wellbeing. The Wellness Wheel (pictured above) reminds us that our wellbeing is multi-dimensional and interconnected. Like putting on your own oxygen mask before helping others, nurturing your wellness is not selfish—it’s essential.
In Solidarity,
Jessica Frost | WVN Program Director
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