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Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility: DEIA

Find resources for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility at the Orange County Library System.

You Belong Here!

May 2024 Message

What DEIA Means to Me - Ruben Cortes

Check the archives for past "What DEIA Means to Me" posts.

DEIA should be a priority to OCLS because our community represents a vibrant melting pot of identities and experiences that make our community a great place to live in. DEIA should be a focus because it recognizes that the library’s place in the community is to serve everyone. This includes our Portuguese-speaking community out by Windermere to the migrant workers out in Zellwood just to name a few. Focusing on DEIA is making an effort to create an environment in which everyone feels a strong sense of belonging which is by no means a small task but one that is worthwhile.  

As someone that is a Mexican American immigrant, I grew up with a lack of representation in media and books unique to my experience. As a result, imposter syndrome has been a real thing and at times has contributed to me hiding parts of myself. This is something that will very likely resonate with anyone that has ever felt like an outcast. As humans, we all want to feel accepted, and focusing on DEIA allows us to ensure that everyone feels seen. I’ve been fortunate that I’ve had some supportive mentors that have pushed me to be comfortable with the uncomfortable and have seen my potential oftentimes before I saw it myself. Fast forward to today, I’m now in a place where I can comfortably present myself as my authentic self and can now use my voice to advocate for others.  

Focusing on DEIA allows us to ensure that as we move forward others don’t experience those negative experiences that are a result of an environment that is not inclusive. As you reflect on what DEIA means to you, I challenge you with the following:  

  • Read or watch something that highlights someone that doesn’t look like you  

  • Make an effort to talk to someone that doesn’t share a commonality with you  

You’ll be surprised to find out that a lot of people have much more in common than we like to think about.  

I leave you with one of my favorite quotes that captures why DEIA is so important:  

“The world would be such a better place if we took the time to understand each other.”  

-Ruben