New journey in a new country rekindles aspiration to make a difference in the world
Observing individuals stand up for justice, championing the marginalized, and giving voiceto the silenced is a true wellspring of inspiration. These actions embody the very heart ofthe Faith Coalition, and I'm sincerely grateful to be a part of it.
I am originally from Nigeria but now residing in the U.S. after relocating last year. My journey has woven together both challenges and moments of beauty. The process of disconnecting from the world I knew and embracing a new reality has been simultaneously exhilarating and intimidating. I'm still in the process of finding mybearings and working to cultivate a sense of home. Despite the uncertainties, I'm thoroughly embracing each step of my journey – the learning, the growth – all of it.
Taking on this role as a community organizer intern has rekindled my lifelong aspiration tomake a positive impact in the world. Growing up surrounded by altruistic individuals had asignificant impact on me. My father, a human rights lawyer, advocated for abusedchildren, women facing domestic violence, and gender equality. My brother, who foughttirelessly against police brutality, spent a good amount of October 2020 making surepeople were not imprisoned without cause. He fought against the popular “End SARS”, amovement to end police brutality in Nigeria. Being exposed to his work fostered mycomprehension of life and instilled within me a profound yearning to champion the causesof women, children, and young adults.
More: UIS begins a new academic year with a renewed focus on student success
Growing up in a developing country, I witnessed the stark contrast between my ownopportunities and those accessible to the majority. This disparity ignited my ambition tostrive for personal and collective improvement.
What truly struck me about the Faith Coalition is its powerful utilization of"voice" as acatalyst for change. It's the ability to observe the world around you and raise a voice insupport of others in defense of what's right. This dynamic is notably absent in my homecountry, where corruption, injustice, and broken systems prevail, yet there's oftenhesitancy to vocalize concerns or demand accountability. In scenarios where individualsspeak up and demand change, the leaders in power not only turn a blind eye to the awfulsituation of the country but also turn a deaf ear to the pain of citizens.
Observing the difference in approach here has ignited something profound within me – afiery spark of passion and determination. Seeing how people fearlessly engage in activechange-making has kindled a zeal for personal growth and a fervent desire to contributeto positive transformation.
Presently, I'm actively involved in the pretrial fairness campaign and the renters' rightslift the ban - HB4101 campaign. My initial day with the Faith Coalition was Aug.16, where I witnessed individuals collectively raise their voices against unjust rentalconditions and prices. The experience was awe-inspiring. Watching voices raised andgenuinely heard was a new encounter for me. It was invigorating and empowering andgave me a glimpse of hope – the hope that I, too, can speak up, hold individualsaccountable, and effect change. Although my journey with the Faith Coalition is justbeginning, I'm resolute in my belief that I'll evolve significantly in the years ahead. I am deeply grateful for the kindness and goodness that has guided me along the way.
Join us for a prayer walk Sept. 10 on Martin Luther King Drive and Brown Street at2 p.m. Also, mark your calendars for the Renter and Landlord Town Hall scheduled forOct. 5 at 6 p.m. The location is to be determined
For more details about the Faith Coalition for the Common Good, contact Tyshianna Bankhead at tyshianna@faithcoalition-il.org or call (217) 544-2297.
This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Faith Coalition for the Common Good intern aspires to make a difference
