A Reflection on Taking Up Space
On March 14th, 2023, I had the privilege of being invited by Cal State University, San Bernardino’s Queer & Trans Resource Center and Asian and Pacific Islander Center. There I had the opportunity to share my story as a queer, first-generation, Filipino-American therapist and the work I do in how I push for better representation and support for our marginalized communities. My hope for the audience was to reflect, “In a world that doesn’t always feel like there is room for our unique individuality, what does it mean for me to take up space?”
I believe it is a therapist's responsibility to practice mindfulness, to practice self of therapist, to be aware of and careful with the narratives held over marginalized groups, to practice cultural humility, to not assume, and to hold that space where our clients can come out from under the narratives people hold over them and have room to tell their own.
In honor of Trans Day of Visibility last month, I would like to share a quote from author and therapist, Lisa Olivera, from her book, “Already Enough,” that expresses, “I want to honor how hard it is for many people to keep going in a world that doesn’t make them feel wanted. You deserve an environment and space that welcomes you with open arms, that recognizes your inherent importance, that honors your uniqueness, that appreciates your gifts, and that knows your worth despite any and all differences. You matter and your existence matters, and I am so sorry this society doesn’t always make that apparent.”
Reflection Questions:
What does it mean to “take up space” in your world?
How might you advocate for yourself today?
How might you advocate for those around you today?
