Winter Commencement at Oakland University

December 21, 2016

I was recently asked to speak at the commencement ceremony for graduates of the College of Arts and Sciences at Oakland University to welcome the new graduates.

Relando Speaks at Commencement Oakland University 2016 1

Relando Speaks at Commencement Oakland University 2016

As I walked through the tunnel of the O’rena, so many memories came flooding back. Memories of people, programs and experiences that helped me to not only graduate, but to find my voice and passion for social justice.

I was also extremely moved by the family members and other loved ones, some of which were in tears, who were there in support of their graduates. I believe that none of us “gets there” by ourselves, and that we are who we are because of others.

So as I congratulated the graduates on a job well done, I thanked the families who were there as well, as their unwavering support will continue to be needed in the months and days to come.

Ubuntu,

From Aspiring Humanitarian, Relando Thompkins-Jones, MSW, LLMSW

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Relando Thompkins-Jones

I'm a macro social worker, social justice educator, and consultant who uses media and education to advance equity and social justice within people, organizations, and communities. I am also the Founder, Host, Editor and Producer of Social Justice Origin Stories, a storytelling project that highlights the personal stories and defining moments that have inspired individuals and organizations to labor for equity and social justice. I started Social Justice Origin Stories because I believe in the power of storytelling and making our experiences accessible to others, because I believe in the liberatory effects of social justice education, to support justice-seekers in finding community and feeling less alone given the relentlessness of oppressive systems, and hopefully to be a resource of support and reflection for those who are thinking through how they could best contribute to the work. We need all who can, to do what they can.