Blog Entry #1: Introduction and Manifesto

Hi, my name is Jimson Chua Jr., you can call me Jim for short. I work as a residential director at Seven Hills Rhode Island where I manage group homes for people with developmental disabilities. I was born and raised in Manila, Philippines and I moved here in the U.S. about 5 years ago. I am in the Youth Development (YDEV) MA program at RIC. In my leisure time, I like going to the gym/ working out and being physically active. I like to binge-watch TV shows and movies. I also like being in the water and doing karaoke (Yes, I love to sing and dance). Lastly, I love to travel -- one of my life goals is to be able to travel the world.

 

Given my background, I don't have much experience on how the education system works here in the United States. I'm personally learning through my experiences here at RIC and by being in the MA program. I'm excited to learn more about the field of education -- it's history, successes, struggles, etc. and how I can help make a difference for the youth.

 

My Manifesto:

I am a teacher who stands up for the youth/ people who are marginalized and mistreated against unjust systems and/or people, who is in favor of equal opportunity against discrimination, who is a supporter of young people having their voices heard and acknowledged against adultism, and who is a defender of the marginalized youth (people of color and people with disabilities) against the unjust political and social systems. I am a teacher who favors the permanent struggle against racism and against beliefs that view the youth as troublemakers and problematic. I am a teacher who rejects bigotry, because it is responsible for most of the chaos and injustice that is happening in this country (and the world). I am a teacher full of hope, in spite of the many struggles and limitations brought upon by the unjust ruling of people in power. I am a teacher who refuses to give up in fighting for what is right and just. I am a teacher proud of being an ally to the youth. If I do not struggle with fighting for a better future for the marginalized youth, then I will no longer be fulfilling what I have promised myself of accomplishing when I started this MA program.