Lessons Learned from New Routes

“The history of every country begins in the heart of a man or a woman.”

– Willa Cather

My field experience has been focused on eliciting “Lessons Learned” about New Routes to Community Health from project participants.  I’ve been writing a paper about the successes and challenges of others.  However, I’d like to share the most significant Lessons Learned I have discovered on a personal level as an intern at New Routes.

1. While I definitely had an interest in social justice before I worked with New Routes, this project has expanded my understanding and interest in immigrant issues and immigrant health.  Previously, I had not considered how the immigrant and refugee experience compounds other social conditions, especially as it relates to health.  The more I learn, the more I feel like I do not have a choice anymore to take action in my life.  I am not sure what is next, but I will take this lesson with me.
2. Words are just words.  Yes, I love them.  Yes, as a communications practitioner, they are still what drive me.  But words without people--without true connections and breakthroughs and struggles--are just squiggles on a page.  Words should be secondary to the power of individuals, the power of one-on-one interactions, to the power of community.  It is only with these things in place that we can begin to use words to shine a light (and give true justice) to the truth of those experiences.
3. When I do use words; however, I will use them with an understanding of the impact of those words.  I will not assume that the words I use, and the culture I carry with me, are understood by everyone I encounter.  Likewise, I will not assume that I have the right to carry messages for others.  Our stories are to be honored, and even within a context of mass communication, I think honoring the truth in each other should still be the main outcome we seek.