My heart started pounding and my palms started to sweat. I felt my knees shaking as I looked over my notes to present some facts on why ethnic minorities (more specifically Young Pacific Islanders) was leaving church. You see I had just did a survey with a group of youth and young adults who belonged to a few Adventist Samoan Congregations in California. Many of them shared their experience of church and how they felt about leaving or staying. Their response to my questions were so raw and at times heartbreaking to read.
As I started to think of ways on how I could postpone or even cancel my portion of the presentation, the presenter that had gone before me shared a pie graph that gave percentages of the ethnic demographics within the North American Division. I began to listen intently to find out where our Pacific Islander people fell under. As the last ethnic group was mentioned (Native/Others) it dawned on me that we only make up 2% of the NAD.
It was at that very moment that I realized the importance of my presence at this conference. It was no longer about my feelings, insecurities, and self pity anymore. It was about utilizing this platform to speak on behalf of the 2% that normally wouldn’t have a voice at this level. It was about all the Pacific Islander Youth and Young Adults who shared their hearts with me. I was able to speak into a space where those who’s voices have not yet been able to be acknowledged is now being heard. From that day on I’ve learned a valuable lesson about utilizing whatever platform you are given to not only effect change, but to also speak and represent for those who don’t have that access yet.
Utilize your platform whether big or small to be a voice for the voiceless. To challenge the status quo. To make more room at the table for more transparent conversations about the beauty of diversity. Remember you are part of some two percent within your own experience that you can use to inspire those who are with you, behind you, and who have already gone before you.
Meshach Soli
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