The Village

“I knew where I was going by the time I was a child.” Jess Vann, Educator, Actor, Performer, Program Manager IG: @Jdotjourney What’s the reform? What’s the restorative approach? What is White Savior Complex (besides the most annoying form of white supremacy)? What is anti-racism work? In this episode, we are joined by Educator Activist Jess Van, who shares her journey as Black girl developing an identity in Lansing, Michigan (“You are part of the African diaspora!”), encounters with racist teachers (and the residual effects), and why she fell in love with Chicago. “It takes a village. The village cannot operate if we ain’t speakin the same language.” What led Jess to begin a career supporting youth and building after school programming? Community Partnerships and establishing bridges, dismantling systems and shifting mindsets (“Black children can’t…”), and asset based community language are all topics of discussion. Tune in, as Jess speaks on how to build leadership skills and how to support the village the way the village needs to be supported. AND, a loving note to any establishment that doesn’t have our best interest at heart… “Keep Chicago out yo mouth!”

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