Visibility Campaign: Joy Karim

May is Asian/Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, an opportunity for us to continue our Visibility Campaign series and revisit our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. This month we will increase visibility of our Asian/Asian American and Pacific Islander staff, as well as our staff who have a passion for support and advocacy. Today's spotlight goes to Joy Karim, MS, training support specialist and mental health first aid instructor with Connecticut Prevention, Wellness, and Recovery. 

Joy has been working at Wheeler for four years after earning a Master of Science degree in Community Economic Development. 

What are some ways people can advocate for the AAPI community right now? See something? Say something. If you overhear someone making a racist joke or a disparaging remark about any race, Asian or otherwise, please speak up and say something. Use this opportunity to gently educate, rather than criticize or judge. By doing so, we hope to initiate a conversation instead of driving our friends and families away, or cause anyone to go underground with their beliefs.   

How do you feel we can better reach the Asian/American community? Wheeler is doing a great job of reaching out to the Asian/Asian American community right now. I'd say keep doing what you're doing and know that it's greatly appreciated. 

Thank you, Joy, for sharing today!