Scholars of Color- Duke Cooney
What is Scholars of Color?
It is a platform in which scholars of color are purposefully celebrated. It’s a space where scholars of color are showcased front and center. It is a digital space where we feel empowered and resilient. Let us get to know each other. Let us cheer each other on AND show the world what we have to offer.
Let us now welcome Duke Cooney to the Scholars of Color space!
Name: Duke Cooney
Location: Sacramento, California
Gender Pronouns: He/Him/His
What's your current occupation? (i.e. Student, Scientist, Coach, In transition, etc.): Environmental Advocate and Law Student
Without positions or titles, how would you describe yourself?: I would describe myself as a Navagator. No matter the obstacle I always persevre and find a path through.
What are you passionate about?: Public Policy, Social Change, Community organizing
What does the representation of Scholars of Color mean to you?: It means that there is a space in academia for BIPOC Scholars. Before I went to college or law school there was no example I could follow on how to achieve these aspirations. There was no one who looked like me. Scholars of Color creates a space where the next generation can see themselves reflected back - creating a path for them to follow and aspire to.
If people are interested in getting connected to you, how can they?: They can reach out via email dukecooney2022@gmail.com or via link'd in.
Anything else you would like us to know?: Working in the California Legilsature, state-wide environmental Public Policy, and even as a student in Law School I have often found myself as the only person of color in the room. The only one who has the ability to break down what equity and equality actually look like for marginalized communities. I have carved a career for myself in spaces that do not generally foster the success of BIPOC individuals. I want to use my knowledge and lived experience to lift up the next generation. I want to make space for them to fill roles in Public Policy and in legal careers -- spaces that need to see BIPOC representation.
Thank you Duke for sharing space with us!
Stay tuned everyone for more Scholars of Color profiles. Interested in being showcased yourself? Please email the Scholars of Color team at scholarsofcolor@reclaimingyourhappiness.com and we will get back to you shortly.
