Veronica “Vero” Ordaz is the center administrator at the Stone Center on Socio-Economic Inequality located at the Graduate Center. She recently took part in Pathways to Leadership, a BIPOC program with the PSC’s state affiliate, New York State United Teachers.
“NYSUT Pathways to Leadership is a project to support NYSUT BIPOC members who strive to own their power and strengthen their skills to take on leadership roles within their union, workplace or community,” NYSUT said on its website. “Throughout the year, participants will learn new skills, create community and experience mentorship to achieve their personal leadership goals.”
Veronica ‘Vero’ Ordaz says the union’s future should reflect ‘the diversity of our members and students.’ (Credit: Paul Frangipane)
DETAILS
It went on, “The project takes participants through a series of meetings, reflections, readings and discussions over the course of the year. We will adapt the content of the program based on the interests and needs this cohort identifies in our first meeting, so the work is tailored to individual participants. The program will culminate with the creation of a leadership project and mentorship opportunities for those who are interested.”
Clarion editor Ari Paul spoke to Ordaz about the experience.
What prompted you to join NYSUT’s Pathways to Leadership?
I learned about the program application as I was thinking about my place in union work. I am the daughter of working-class Central American immigrants, and I did not have a traditional, straightforward path in education nor in labor. I welcomed an opportunity to spend time learning, reflecting and building a community with BIPOC educators and leaders from across the state.
What were some of the most important things you learned from this program?
This program is a powerful testament to the idea that if you value something, you have to resource it. We are witnessing massive backlash, especially in education, to decades of racial and social justice work. After the devastating impacts of Covid magnified inequalities in society, followed by the largest U.S. protests in support of Black Lives, we had a moment of hope. Unfortunately, that groundswell also triggered a rejection of racial progress. NYSUT’s Pathways to Leadership program helps counter that retrenchment. If we really want to create a more equal society, we must allocate resources to support the work necessary to make it happen.
What experiences or lessons do you hope to bring to your campus?
We need to continue to bring more people into the work, so that our future reflects the diversity of our members and our students. There are many ways in which to lead and many different roles necessary to accomplish goals.
Why do you think programs like this are important for BIPOC union members?
Programs like this are one way to put our stated union values into practice and challenge ingrained inequities. They create space for BIPOC members to process our experiences, develop systems of support and strategies for accountability in our union work, our schools, community and across all the spaces we inhabit.
Published: October 29, 2024
