Episode Details

After narrowly avoiding a car accident in a parking lot one day, Angie Freeman (they/them) reflects on how that experience, and their initial reaction in the moments before and after learning the other driver was Deaf, expanded their awareness of their unexamined privilege. The experience set them on a path to learn American Sign Language (ASL), learn more about the lived experiences of Deaf people, and sparked a journey of self-work to more deeply understand how privilege operates. This journey continues to inform their life and work today as a speaker and educator.  

Angie also shares an example from their experiences as a Black, trans, and nonbinary parent that speaks to the importance of teaching children the expansiveness of gender identity and family structures from a young age. 

Their storytelling invites us to start with ourselves, to focus on deconstructing the misinformation that’s reflected through our privileged identities, and to use the power we have in service of equity and justice.

Connect with Angie on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angie-freeman/

00:00 Introduction: Navigating Parental Identity

00:33 Embracing Nonbinary Parenthood

00:56 Teaching Inclusivity to Children

02:23 Correcting Misconceptions

04:20 The Power of Storytelling

05:31 Warm Memories and Acts of Kindness

08:22 Angie's Social Justice Journey

10:51 Recognizing Privilege and Intersectionality

16:42 From Informal to Formal DEIB Work

18:57 Challenges and Growth in DEIB

26:30 The Importance of Language and Small Actions

31:06 The Role of Educators in Inclusivity

33:56 Vulnerability and Continuous Learning

35:35 Finding Identity as a Nonbinary Parent

36:14 Teaching Kids About Diverse Families

02:01 Correcting Misgendering and Advocating for Respect

39:46 Support from a Loving Partner

40:47 Influential Books and Mentors

46:54 The Importance of Authenticity

49:55 Encouraging Allyship and Shared Responsibility

54:00 Moments of Support and Validation

57:28 Reflecting on Social Justice and Personal Growth

01:05:57 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

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