Space for EVRyone: Introducing… Rachelle

This is in our Space for EVRyone blog series. To recommend another amazing person for us to profile, reach out to us at info@evresea.com

Rachelle is a teacher-turned-stay-at-home-mum and activist. She lives in Buckinghamshire. She was a one of the first Community Champions for On Your Side.

·        What is your heritage?

Filipino.

·         What reflections and experiences have led you to join EVR?

I grew up in Toronto, Canada, where there were diverse ethnicities. I never felt part of a minority. Racism was present, but I never experienced microaggressions. Moving to the UK was when I first experienced racism in different ways, like microaggressions and gaslighting. At first, I didn’t acknowledge my experience even to myself. But Black Lives Matter made me question things and want to overcome internal colonisation.

I realised that I was being gaslit. I worked at a small school, and I became careful about the foods I brought to work. A colleague would say that my miso soup smelled like dirty socks and there were other comments. I’ve had conversations where white people have told me that racism isn’t a problem in the UK or that it’s not as bad as it is in other parts of the world. I also think there is something especially challenging about being ESEA in a rural community in the UK.

My kids are biracial. I worry for them. I would like to raise awareness of the importance of diversity. When we keep in mind that the world is bigger than the community we live in, that creates empathy.

·        What does antiracism mean to you?

Being empathetic to everyone in your community. Respecting different life experiences; different cultures; and accepting people regardless of choices. It’s about race and more.

Unlearning things. Being ok with uncomfortable with feelings – learning and then moving forward. Acknowledging your privilege. It’s a daily process.

·        What is your favourite thing about your heritage?

I have too many! Food brings us together in ESEA cultures. My culture is loud and fun. In Filipino culture, we have the concept of bayanihan which means taking care of your community. It’s a culture of giving.

·        What are your hopes for the future?

We would dismantle the systems we have in place which are not working. And replace them with systems which promote equity for all. My children and other children of colour and mixed heritage would have a stronger foundation.

You can follow Rachelle on Instagram @thevillagepinay. She also takes action with the climate justice group Parents for Future UK.