Why are am I here?

Lisa Campbell

Remeber-
Recently coming to this new place I've had to introduce myself many times: Who am I? What am I studying? What do I do?
and of course-


What does that say on your wrist?
"זכור"
"zakhor"
"what?"
"remember- it means remember in hebrew"
"significa recordar en hebreo"
"¿en qué?"
"remember what?"

My tattoo has different meanings to different folks. Many find it offensive as in the Holocaust jews were forced to have their wrists tatooed with numbers. Remember is one of the most repeated words in the old testiment, derived from G-d constantly reminding us to reflect back on slavery; "And Moses said to the nation, Remember (Zakhor) this day when you went out from Egypt, from the house of slavery, since with the force of power did the Lord take you out from that place" (Exodus 13:3,7,8).

To me it means remembering oppression- to not let it happen again to anyone, anywhere. I've taken to shortening my answer to the frequent questions but recently one repsonce suprised me;

"Do you know kabalah? Do you study it?"
"No, what does it mean in kabalah?"
"It means remember your purpose, the purpose that G-d gave you."

I am taking popular education because I am a big fan of education for the people by the people. I feel that we all have experienced oppression at some point in our lives, and that by examining these experiences critically we can deconstruct their roots and build solidarity.

My roots are the path that bring me here to this point. I trace their meandering path, tenderly reflecting on sharp curves, nodes, and new sprigs. I've gone over them so many times; defending them; watering; nurturing. I want to say something new; I want to challenge myself.

I hope to use this course as a tool in my own work, drawing on my strengths as a popular educator and learning from the experiences of others. I am also here to learn from my elders, the great voices and thinkers of our time. May the work continue to grow and inspire!