As we seek to develop inclusive and welcoming spaces inside and outside of The Trustees, Lynn Murray, Director of DBIE Programs and Partnerships had the opportunity to build on our relationship with the Boston Harbor Women of Color Coalition (BHWOCC) by attending their annual retreat on Cathleen Stone Island. BHWOCC works to elevate women of color as leaders in green and blue spaces while cultivating connectedness to each other and the outdoors. After the retreat, Lynn spoke with other Trustees colleagues who attended to learn about their personal experiences and reflections.
What was your favorite part of the day?
Alejandra Narvaez, Coastal Project Manager, Coast and Natural Resources:
“Hearing about what other folks are doing in this field was really great, especially seeing how many young people of color are starting to work in green and blue spaces in this area. It was also wonderful to reconnect with people from previous networks I’ve been a part of and to see BHWOCC as a large community of support.”
Annabel Rabiyah, Regional Engagement Manager, Greater Boston & Boston Community Gardens:
“It was so great to connect with other POC professionals in a similar field, think about future collaborations, and know that these people are out there to reach out to in the future.”
Arlenne Rodriguez-Gonzalez, Community Outreach Manager, Boston Waterfront Initiative:
“My favorite part of the retreat was the keynote speaker and the strategy planning session. The keynote speaker made a strong impression on me, especially in how she addressed the concept of failure. Her discussion of failure as an essential component of growth was both insightful and encouraging. The strategy planning session also helped me see the practical applications of the ideas being discussed and how they can be implemented within our organization.”
What were some key takeaways from the day?
Alejandra Narvaez:
“It’s okay to fail! It’s okay not to have yourself together at all points in time. It was also great to see the process of a coalition forming and building up an infrastructure. It’s always valuable to have insight into a strategic planning process, especially one where people of color are centered. Plus, I made lots of new (and rekindled some old) connections that are good to keep in mind!”
Arlenne Rodriguez-Gonzalez: “I gained insight into the importance of cultivating strong partnerships and relationships. The retreat emphasized how critical it is to have a well-thought-out strategy and programming in place to drive successful outcomes.”
Annabel Rabiyah:
“I learned a lot about the Boston Harbor Islands! I now have a better sense of the different organizations doing waterfront work in the city. Also, joining the development committee during the working groups was very educational in understanding how to build up an organization from scratch. Plus, it’s a great outlet to reach out to for potential future hires at the Trustees!”
What are some thoughts you have about the BHWOCC and Trustees partnership?
Alejandra Narvaez:
“I’m really excited about it! We welcome so many people onto our beautiful properties daily, and it’s great to see more of an initiative to ensure we’re welcoming everyone from diverse backgrounds equitably. I also think BHWOCC will be able to share some great resources and experiences on what it means to make a workplace (or a property) accessible to women of color and how to foster great leadership from all staff members.”
Annabel Rabiyah:
“I’m really excited we are deepening our collaboration by contracting with them to be consultants. I think they have a lot more community trust and buy-in, and the more we can be under their wing and follow their guidance, the better. I dream that the Trustees could become a core organizational sponsor of the collective, as it will serve our WOC staff in important ways.”
Arlenne Rodriguez-Gonzalez:
“I believe that the Trustees should continue to strengthen our partnership with the Boston Harbor Women of Color Coalition. Given their focus on community engagement and equity, BHWOCC would be a valuable ally in our work. Building a strong relationship with them would enhance our impact and foster a more inclusive approach to our initiatives. A deeper collaboration could bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table, making our collective efforts even more effective.”