Scholars Of Color-Gary Santos Mendoza
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 Gary Santos Mendoza to the Scholars of Color Space!
Name: Gary Santos Mendoza
Gender Pronouns: He/Him/His
What do you currently do for work and/or school?: Ph.D. Candidate
Without positions or titles, how would you describe yourself?: An educator with an "Empire State of Mind"
What are you passionate about?: I am passionate towards the actions and ideas to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion of all folks, especially Queer/Trans* and marginalized communities. The ability to provide a seat at the table for all, provide different ideas and thoughts toward a betterment of our community and world. In addition, I am passionate in myself to be good enough, we sometimes forget that we are good enough in what we do, an acknowledgement of self provides us mindfulness and peace.
Why is the representation of scholars of color important to you?: As people of color, we have historically experienced racism, colorism, sexism, classism ,homophobia, and trans* phobia just to name a few. As an scholar of color with intersectional Queer, Latinx, and cisgender male identity, I am one of many stories of oppressed scholars of color whose narrative can educate others in learning about historical and current actions to help society promote people of color; and empower the future to build upon what has been established about and for people of color..
If people are interested in getting connected to you, how can they?: You can connect with me through Social Media: Twitter: ecuariqu3no, Instagram: ecuariqu3no and by email at: gsantosmendoza@fau.edu
Anything else you would like us to know?: The importance of learning about stories of intersectionality of multiple identities is important to gain understanding of different folks. I recommend reading my article: Queer Latinx…Yep we’re here. from Diverse: Issues in Higher Education Article: https://diverseeducation.com/article/137761/ for more information about intersectional identity experience.
Thank you Gary 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.
