Demia, or as everyone calls her, Ms. D, is the Culinary Teacher and Mentor at Association House High School. In honor of Black History Month, Ms. D shares how Black history has impacted her life.
What is your favorite part of your experience with Association House?
My favorite part of my experience with Association House can be summed up in one word - FAMILY. Since day one, when I walked in the door, I felt nothing but love and support from everyone. Being in this type of environment, it created a positive, motivating, and morale-boosting culture for me. Association House doesn’t see color, race, creed nor culture - they see heart.
Is there a moment in Black history that influenced or shaped your career/life or that particularly resonates with you?
A moment in black history that resonates with me is being alive and actually witnessing the first black President in history - Barack Obama. Seeing this happen and thinking to myself, 'Could something like this really happen?' and it did. It made me feel special. Especially because I am a woman of color. It showed me that dreams can be achieved through hard work and dedication.
What does anti-racism or equity mean to you?
Anti-racism means welcoming people from outside the majority culture- not being biased or treating people unfair based on their race. It’s about the practice of healing, restoring and love and doing what is right. At the end of the day, it’s all about fairness and justice.
Do you have a favorite mantra or quote?
One of my favorite quotes that I go by is, “Hate no one, no matter how much they’ve wronged you. Love humbly, no matter how wealthy you become. Think positively, no matter how hard life is. Give much, even if you’ve been given little. Forgive all, especially yourself, and never stop praying for the best for everyone.”
What is your favorite type of black culture (tv, movies, music, art, books, businesses, etc.) to consume?
I love watching old school, black culture sitcoms and some reality tv. I love listening to old school hip hop and R&B music. A couple of my favorite movies is Love Jones and Just Wright. Or I might relax and read a good book. One I am reading now is Assata, an autobiography by Assata Shakur. I also frequent black-owned businesses regularly to support - Turkey Chop, Brown Sugar bakeries, and FoodHefner catering just to name a few.
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