I stand on the shoulders of my most beloved professor in college, Tessa Hicks Peterson.
Tessa introduced me to the concepts of healing justice, anti-racism and decolonization. As a white woman, this marked the first time I learned about white privilege, saviorism, and altruism. Despite my discomfort, I knew that I needed to lean in and learn more.
I showed up to college with the intention of majoring in Psychology, but after a few months I began to question whether a traditional major would be sufficient. With guidance, I created a major called Community Based Mental Health that trusted communities had the inherent resilience and resources to create their own solutions.
I will always hold close the quote Tessa had in her email signature by Lila Watson. “If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time. But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together.”
Tessa’s teachings showed me that if my intention was to “help” or “fix,” I might as well walk the other way. Instead, I chose to recognize my interconnectedness to all people, listen to the needs of individuals and communities who I am supporting, and center their stories and quest for liberation.
Abigail Taubman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA. www.abigailctaubman.com
