Nora Rushford

Social work values are rooted in anti-oppressive practice, yet throughout my four decades of social service work with children, youth, and families, I’ve grown to recognize the myriad of ways that my profession creates and/or colludes with systemic structures that harm Black, Brown, AANHPI, and Indigenous Americans.

As a white, cis woman, I have had the good fortune of being surrounded by individuals and groups (parents who were active in anti-racist movements; an enlightened daughter; colleagues; friends; students) who call me out, call me in, help me take stock of my privileged place in the world, and propel me forward in anti-racist activities.

Being a mother, a grandmother, a partner, a reader, a gardener, an occasional quilter, and a water lover bring me joy and keep me grounded.