A few weeks ago, I was contacted by a reporter for KXAN about Texas’ now defunded office of minority health (yes, it is I—the person who is continually asked to comment on this issue!).
Apparently, Texas legislators are toying with the idea of fully reinstating the office and its budget. While I won’t hold my breath, you can read and watch that story here:
There’s a funny moment in this video where I’m, like, answering emails because the KXAN producer wanted me to look busy. If anything I look like I’m trying to do work while sitting on a painful hemorrhoid.
anyway! I don’t feel great about being THE person who gives these interviews: I had so many amazing colleagues doing this work before I arrived at that office, & who continue to make headway in the world of DEI consulting/public health. I think that I’ve moved away from that work has made it easier for me to talk to press, but I think it’s wildly important to say: that office & its mission thrived off the lifeblood of dedicated staff who are disabled, queer, immigrant, Black and Latinx & who got up everyday really giving a shit.
Until there’s an office of minority health in Texas again, I’m down to talk about it. What I can’t abide by is the sense that it was work I singularly carried on my back when I owe everything I know & nearly my whole praxis to that amazing team of people.
subvert and worship 