Achieving Our Goals - Human Capital Strategic Priority
Illinois Partners Racial Equity Training
Illinois Partners offers racial equity training for human service leaders, providing tools and frameworks to address systemic racism and promote equity. Thanks to the Healing Illinois Grant, four representatives from the county’s nonprofit sector will participate statewide in 2025.
Sandra Mateo and Angela Ramirez, featured below, made history as the first two representatives from Lake County to join the inaugural statewide cohort of the Illinois Partners Racial Equity Training. Here’s what she had to say about their transformative experience:
“The small-group breakout sessions allowed us to practice identifying trauma signs and dive deeper into how we can each create spaces where all voices are heard and valued. The Challenging Latinidad Workshop focused on deconstructing Latinx identities and empowering Black and Indigenous people. The workshop consisted of historical explanations of different identities in Latin America and personal reflections in small groups. There is a lot of internal racism within the Latinx community and this workshop provided space for each of us to have a better understanding of why we identify ourselves in ways that support White Supremacy and gave a platform for empowerment to reclaim our true identities.” -Angela Ramirez, Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods, Administrative Coordinator
“A highlight of the training was connecting with many individuals from various organizations and levels. It was great to discuss and meet people who want to make a difference and are motivated to act. Connecting with people from various backgrounds expanded the number of ideas and thoughts about what we can do within our roles. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming thinking about all the changes we want to implement, however, having the space to talk about the work one does and share ideas you have is motivating because you see you aren't the only one.” -Sandra Mateo, Volunteer, Waukegan to College
