ETHICS STATEMENT
Ethics Statement | Resume |Cover Letter | Thank You Letter | Time Sheet
I believe that all people are equal and that we should learn and celebrate our differences and work together for equality for everyone while recognizing the historical oppression of certain groups and how oppression affects all of us. |
First Phase
1. Who am I? I’m a queer biracial Asian woman raised in the South. 2. What do I believe? I believe that all people are equal and that we should learn and celebrate our differences and work together for equality for everyone while recognizing the historical oppression of certain groups and how oppression affects all of us. 3. How do you interact/react where you work, rest, and play? Are there things you would like to change? Although I often feel like I am the only person in my demographic (queer; Asian. However, we often have other women at meetings), I feel accepted and welcomed at work as who I am. A part of this certainly has been from me frankly stating my identity and expecting transparency and respect. Therefore I feel like my role is more active than reactive, which may make all the difference. |
During the typical school year, I often feel unrepresented and unwelcome in some spheres I move in. Usually this is not because of outright discrimination but rather because of offhanded comments and “jokes” my peers and make around me. Ignoring my identity for so long has only hurt, and actively carving out a space for myself has not only been therapeutic in working through my identity and unlearning harmful stereotypes, but it also may help other individuals who belong to marginalized groups.
Otherwise, I try to surround myself with people who I don’t have to ask not to use slurs in everyday conversation. Having a safe space where I know none of my identities will be mocked or called into question is vital for me, and I look forward to continuing to build this group of friends. a. How well do your values and beliefs correspond to those of the individuals and families with whom you work? Are their certain differences that challenge your ability to build rapport and work effectively with individuals and families? Many of the people we serve are marginalized in some way—many in race or skin color, and fewer in sexuality (whom I know of). I certainly have internalized prejudices that I have to continue to unlearn that may challenge my ability to build rapport and work effectively with individuals and families. However, currently the greatest barrier is the structure of this internship itself: it really is centered around meetings, fundraising, etc. and I have had almost no contact with community members who aren’t board members or business owners. 4. Why do you believe what you do? I’ve had the privilege to see the historical roots and current effects of marginalization, as well as seeing it in my own life and family. Second Phase 1. What is the purpose of writing a personal code of ethics? To see where you can match your professional life to your beliefs and what you might have to give up (at least for a while). 2. Develop a set of “I Wills” to describe what you aspire to do as a professional. 1. I will continue unlearning internalized prejudices. 2. I will listen to marginalized groups to know their opinions. 3. I will celebrate diversity and actively work against marginalization. 4. I will speak up when it is safe for me to. 3. What rules will you follow when interacting with others? Treat people how they would to be treated. 4. What rules will you follow when interacting with others or in a workplace? Treat people how they would like to be treated. a. You can think about: What are your responsibilities to the agency for which you work? Do these responsibilities support or run counter to the needs of the individuals and families with whom you work? My responsibilities are mostly fundraising and attending meetings, which all smooth the path to helping the individuals and families we work with. b. Describe a professional dilemma you faced during your internship? How did you handle this dilemma? Unfortunately the only professional dilemma I faced wasn’t big or exciting: we needed framing for our artwork award and when a certain store was suggested, it seemed that certain board members weren't comfortable with their business practices. Therefore, I found another place for framing. Being open with him about my values (as well as being in an environment where I can share them) is crucial. c. How well do your values, beliefs, and work ethic match those of the individuals with whom you work? I think they match well, and I think even if they don’t, we are all vocal about our beliefs, share them with each other, and respect each other’s beliefs. |