What is my privilege?
And how can I use that privilege to help others?
Running for office means being honest about where I stand — including the advantages I've had that not every parent in this district has. Here's my honest accounting of my own privilege, and how I intend to put it to use.
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Working parents often feel like their time is limited.
I am retired — I have time to dedicate to community action.
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Meetings and documents presented primarily in English are an obstacle for parents who are not native English speakers.
I am a native English speaker — I understand what is being discussed at meetings and can participate in the discussions.
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Men are sometimes kept at arm's length from female-dominated spaces.
I am a woman — I have been welcomed into public school spaces. Other female parents speak openly about their children and their struggles with the school system.
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Families who are new to Moreno Valley need to spend time getting to know people who can help them.
I am a long-time resident of 40 years — I have built community connections.
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Families with first-generation college students don't know what to expect.
My husband is a university professor — I hear first-hand how our students are arriving for college academically unprepared.
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Campaigning is expensive.
I am financially secure — I am able to afford to run a campaign that is not reliant on well-connected political donors. I have the luxury of focusing on issues outside of my immediate family needs. My elected office would not be affected by outside donor influence.
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Academic administration is complex.
I am educated — through MVUSD honors classes and college classes I was able to obtain a good education, understand the issues of the school board, and learn public speaking skills.
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Not all information is created equally.
I am welcomed on school campuses — by spending time on campus, I hear diverse viewpoints from parents and teachers in ways they are unable or uncomfortable to speak publicly.
Want to hear more directly?
This is a small, grassroots campaign — message Jennifer directly and she'll reply personally.