As I read Justice & Joy’s Reinvention for Impact 2024 report, as chair of the Board of Trustees I am filled with profound pride and solidarity with the women, past and present, who continue to forge multiple pathways to health, wholeness and justice. Justice & Joy National Collaborative’s mission, legacy and future are grounded in a powerful past while remaining steadfast in our commitment to address today’s challenges. Throughout our history we have adapted in real time to achieve transformative impact. We do this by building deep connections with young women and gender-expansive young people of color, working with and not just for them. We have always collaborated, rather than competed, with sister organizations across the country, trusting that we are more powerful and effective together. We understand that the struggles of girls, young women and gender-expansive young people are best addressed by creating systems that allow them to thrive, and we work in partnership to create a society that values, nurtures, and respects all that they have to contribute. I’m grateful to those who nurtured my potential as a young Latine girl so that I could become my family’s first college graduate. As I pursued my purpose to nurture future generations of trailblazers, they helped me to see the strengths, like being bilingual, where others saw ‘difference.’ In my career as a social worker, nonprofit executive and professor, I have been a mirror for others to appreciate, and contribute their strengths. Rather than feeling different, they are making a difference.
It takes purpose, courage and humility to change, to grow, to evolve. As you walk through Justice & Joy’s Reinvention for Impact 2024 report, reflect on the courage exhibited over 142 years by generations of young women and gender-expansive young people, who transcended their circumstances to thrive. Join us in this crucial work with your partnership, time and talent.
In Solidarity,
Dr. Linda Lausell Bryant
Chair, Board of Trustees
