While diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) have become buzz words, people like Kaitlin Gonzalez have been doing this significant work for years. She is a DEI expert, conducting trainings and consulting businesses. She facilitated a training with the American Red Cross Western Kentucky chapter, which led her to become a board member. “Our goal is to make our board diverse. We are working on attracting board members who look like our community. Our board members understand cultural sensitivity. It’s important for people to feel like they belong and are accepted,” said Kaitlin.
Kaitlin believes our differences can inspire positive change. “It's important for people to know about DEI so we have an awareness of differences and similarities. We don’t have to be fearful of those differences; They can bring strengths. We should embrace it and harness it for the good.”
She is passionate about the international community. Kaitlin previously taught English as a second language (ESL) at Owensboro Technical Community College and Daviess County High School. She also worked for a nonprofit organization in refugee services. “In ESL classes, we taught skills such as everyday activities which might have been different than what they were used to in their home country. Providing cultural orientation,” she said.
Her interest in international cultures led her to explore international law. She began teaching International Humanitarian Law (IHL) at Daviess County High School, a learning experience offered through the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC). IHL is a set of rules that seek to limit the effects of armed conflict. It protects people who are not or are no longer participating in hostilities and restricts the means and methods of warfare.
“Towards the end of our program was the invasion of Ukraine. We were able to look at real life examples and see what was happening in current day. We discussed what was following the rules of law. It’s so good for students to learn about it because they have history classes. It goes so well with what they are learning in school. It makes them think more complex and engage in critical thinking; Think about situations that aren’t just black and white. We would ask, ‘What would you do in this situation?” Kaitlin explained.
Her background with refugee services led her to discover our Restoring Family Links (RFL) program. RFL provides free and confidential services to help families reconnect during times of disruption. Kaitlin recently completed her training to become a RFL caseworker. “This is a perfect fit for me… I’m happy I get to work with the refugee population again and help them in this way of reconnecting with family.”
She is also a Disaster Action Team (DAT) member. DAT teams respond to personal emergencies like home fires to provide care and support. Kaitlin described helping a family after their house was destroyed by a fire. “We were able to give comfort to them… In a moment of helplessness, they were so appreciative. It made me feel good.” She commented having empathy is vital.
Kaitlin reflected on the impact volunteering has had on her. “[The Red Cross] is such a big part of my life now… It’s amazing how much they impact their communities. Knowing there are Red Cross organizations all over the world. We are all working toward the same goal, and we all have the same principles.
Kaitlin is married to Jose, and they have three fur babies together: Chico, Havana, and Mila. The couple met at Daviess County High School on the Latin dance team. Kaitlin said her passion for dance grew from the team, as she now teaches Zumba and Zumbini classes.
No comments:
Post a Comment