Why do you do this Anti-Violence work?
I grew up with violence so not so surprisingly, anti violence folks – people who want to elevate and validate the voice of survivors and reject oppression – are my people. I am fortunate to be in a movement among my people working for the liberation and validation of all people.
What would you like to learn your first year on your new job?
I am rejoining the Action Alliance and so am fortunate to be coming into this job already knowing a lot about the work and the people. But what I am most looking forward to learning in this new capacity is how to contribute to the movement and evolution of this agency in particular from a management role. I think I have a lot (A LOT) to learn from the visionary brains that I will be working alongside in this new role and I am looking forward to the inevitable growth and strain (a “feel the burn”, good, exercise kinda strain) that this role will produce in me.
What is the most incredible view you’ve ever seen?
I lived in Washington State for 3 years and saw a lot of beautiful sights and things all around the pacific northwest. My favorite view though, is the seeing the Appalachians from the seat of a plane. It is a welcome-home sight that I will always be grateful to see. It touches me in a way that is indescribable.
What is the latest book you’ve read and would you recommend it?
I recently read a collection of short fictions and wonders called “Fragile Things” by Neil Gaiman. I loved him growing up but I am not sure that I would suggest this particular series of stories. I found myself asking “wait, that is it?” at the end of each story.
I am guessing my tastes have evolved a bit since reading him in my youth.
What are the 3 things you love about Virginia?
- The people.
- The Fauna: Virginia is where the flora and fauna of the North and South meet – we have it all.
- The history: Virginia’s rich history that has given rise to innovative and strong social justice and resistance movements in various pockets around the state.
If you had one box for all your stuff, what would you put in it?
My animals, a few books, and random household knick-knacks that hold sentimental value.
If you were a vegetable what would you be? Why?
Broccoli. I am tall, big headed, and when I grow my hair out – it is broccoli like. A good friend of mine, who is now a successful graphic designer has actually illustrated me (and our friends) as vegetables multiple times. I am always the broccoli. Without a doubt.
Lastly, what excites you most about your new job at the Action Alliance?
I am so happy to be working alongside such fierce, beautiful humans who you can not help but learn from and grow with – I am most excited about this group of people.
Jonathan Yglesias is the Programs and Services Manager at the Action Alliance. He has worked in prevention for various agencies and is a resource nationally for prevention and advocacy.
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