What’s Your Story?
We have all asked that question of friends and colleagues, but never really waiting for the actual story to be told. We use it in greeting, but it can be used for so much more and that exactly is why Rise Up 2024 was all about Story Telling.
Thursday, October 17th marked the 3rd annual Rise Up Conference. This year’s theme, “What’s Your Story,” centered around the importance of sharing one’s lived experience. We know that through storytelling, we can learn, connect, build empathy and be moved to action. The day opened with bundles of flowers and stories that all had space in the vase to create a beautiful bouquet of unique blooms each having a story to be told.
The day began with excerpts from Ruby Bridges’ story. We saw how at the age of 6, Ruby’s story was one to take note of. Her bravery, empathy and faith led her and others to advocate for those most in need. Ruby’s story has influenced our history but note that there is not history without first having the story.
Over 200 attendees gathered at the California Endowment Center to both hear stories and share stories. Throughout the day stories addressed privilege, the wealth gap, hope, advocacy, self-care, intersectionality, finding purpose, biases in the community, to name a few. Attendees were drawn to workshops that focused on addressing biased language in elementary schools, the impact of color blindness, advocacy and internalized racism, all while asking Who Writes Your Story.
We were incredibly fortunate to have presenters from a variety of community partners, who graciously gave of their time to help make Rise Up such a success.
The theme of storytelling was woven throughout the day and capped off with our keynote speaker, Dr. Allen Lipscomb of CSUN. Dr, Lipscomb share how storytelling serves to connect people with one another, but that it’s also a powerful tool for empowerment. Dr, Lipscomb turned to the audience and asked how we could hold space for storytelling. The audience shared the need to listen without judgment, inquire with curiosity and to be present to remind the teller that they are both seen, heard and valued. Dr, Lipscomb’s dynamic and engaging keynote left us all thinking of ways in which we can empower others with our stories while providing the space and grace for others to tell theirs.
Throughout the day participants were sharing their positive experiences in the workshops and plenary sessions. There was a beautiful energy filled with learning the importance of storytelling. By sharing with each other we grow, learn, empathize and connect.
Hope you can join us next year!!
Check out some more photos below or click on the link above!
