Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/274063
B Y C O L L E E N N I S H I K A W A - A L A N I S , M O N T E B E L L O T E A C H E R S A S S O C I AT I O N I A M A J A PA N E S E A M E R I C A N , third-generation ethnic minority. My parents were sent to an internment camp before I was born. When I was a child, they never spoke about their experience or how they felt. They did not want me to hate America, but to be a part of it. They stressed education, and instructed me to work hard and keep my opinions to myself. My parents always said, "You are Japanese American. You must always remember where you came from." I have always thought of myself as American and debated the issue with my parents, never having experienced what they went through. However, as I grew into adulthood, I myself experienced more and more roadblocks for a person of color. During this time, I thought perhaps my parents were correct, so I kept my opinions to myself. At best, I discussed them with close friends. This is how I lived my life, although subconsciously, I knew I was not fully connected to myself. One day, a CTA leader of color shared her positive perception of me. It was something that I did not see, or rather did not want to acknowledge in myself. I disagreed with her. I fought her. This went on for weeks. Then, she connected me with other CTA leaders, and over time I reflectively revisited my own identity and accepted her perception. I accepted myself. My parents were correct to teach me to remember my roots, but I did not fully grasp that simple statement. To be able to relate, share visions, ideas, opinions and plans with other ethnic minorities — wow, now that is powerful! I see how CTA's EMEID program helps others while helping me grow (I am free to be me). This is a philosophy, a psychology and a way of life. It is in sync with unity, diversity and collaboration. It is both connected and interconnected. The Ethnic Minority Early Identification Development program promotes ethnic minority members by giving participants tools to expand their roles in leadership and themselves. It is an opportunity to broaden one's knowledge of CTA and explore many possibilities and opportunities of leadership while sharpening your skills. It is like open- ing a door to a new expansive world. For me, it has enhanced my life both professionally and personally. I've also discovered: • The program builds on "Awareness" — I came into this program knowing very little about CTA's purpose and how it functions. Knowing where to get answers, support and guidance is invaluable in advocating for the well-being and progress of our students, teachers and community. Knowing the big picture always puts things in perspective. • Hands-on learning with "Interconnections" — The EMEID program encourages participants to talk to leaders and staff. Interfacing one-to-one with an individual, from the president of CTA to all its leaders and staff, makes this program unique. It draws you in — you are a part of it, interconnected. In addition, experiencing CTA at work, by physically being present at meetings, conventions, events and State Coun- cil, is productive and exhilarating. Learning to be a leader Colleen Nishikawa-Alanis Leadership APR = Annual Percentage Rate. "As low as" auto rates are our best rates for up to 125% financing on approved credit and include a 1% discount for Automatic Payment (AutoPay). Rates subject to increase if AutoPay is discontinued. Actual interest rate offered may be higher depending on applicant's credit rating and other underwriting factors. In some instances Logix may require borrowers to purchase Guaranteed Auto Protection on new and used auto loans. Maximum 17.99% APR. Monthly payments at 1.69% APR over a 48 month term are estimated at $21.57 per $1,000. Rate accurate as of 1/20/14 and is subject to change. Current Logix loans excluded unless you take a $5,000 cash out (must meet loan-to-value requirements) or pay a $249 fee. Logix finances vehicles purchased through franchised dealerships only (those affiliated with a major brand such as Ford, Chevy or Toyota). Auto loans are available in AZ, CA, DC, FL, MA, MD, ME, NH, NV, TX and VA. Please contact us for details. Qualifying applicant may select to defer their first payment for 90 days from the loan funding date. Interest will accrue during deferral period. Subject to credit approval. No MoNey DowN Logix will finance up to 125% of your vehicle's value No payments for 90 Days We Built You a Better Loan Better Better get pre-approveD toDay! Call (800) 328.5328 endorsed by: Educator 03 Mar 2014 v2.1 int.indd 55 3/6/14 5:05 PM