Creating change, uncertainty, and connection w/ Raphael Pastor

We can meet truly remarkable people in the random-est of places. 

Today's guest, Raphael Pastor was my make-up artist for my cousin's wedding. Our 20 minute appointment led to this conversation.

Raphael speaks about his work as a campaign organizer and shares some insight on how to create real change across the aisle. I ask for his thoughts on how social media can be used in social justice work. He also speaks of the importance of connection and compassion in equity work and beyond.

One thing he said that will be forever engraved in my mind is - "For me, I see policies as debatable and dignity is not debatable." 

From the conversation, you'll find Raphael comes with a kaleidoscope of perspectives rich in nuance. I learned so much from him as an activist and as a human.

 

About the guest

A former LGBTQ campaign organizer, Raphael Pastor (he/him) has witnessed the power of community. Starting as a presidential campaign volunteer and eventually working with New Jersey's campaign for same-sex marriage and national campaign for Employment Non-Discrimination (ENDA), Raphael empowers people to create change in their world through advocacy. Raphael's greatest joy is leading people to actualize their power and work toward their highest contributions. He aims to continually inspire LGBTQ youth and allies to become future change agents. Raphael is currently a social work student at County College of Morris and plans on working toward his undergraduate degree in Human Resource Management and Education Policy, concentrating on diversity and equity and college and workplace learning.

If you want to get in touch with Raphael, you can find him on Instagram @beaute.theory.

 

About the host

Lisa Chin (she/her/hers) believes that knowing ourselves is central to being happy and fulfilled. This podcast is about the observation and examination of self - exploring all the things that make us who we are. Why? Because the better we understand ourselves, the more good we can do in the world.

Lisa creates and podcasts from the traditional and unceded land of the Nipmuc and Massachusett tribes in a town outside Boston, MA.

To learn more about Lisa, her writing as well as opportunities to work with her, visit www.lisaforreal.com. Feel free to send her an email or DM her on Instagram @reclaimingmotherhood with your thoughts of an inspired life.