I first worked with Level Forward in 2019 when I was the Chair and Commissioner of the New York City Commission on Human Rights, the agency tasked with combating discrimination and harassment in employment, housing, and public accommodations in New York City. During my tenure, the NYC Human Rights Law was amended over 20 times to expand protections in the City, and the Commission was known for its aggressive law enforcement; creative approaches to education and outreach; collaborative approach with employers, businesses, housing providers, and other government agencies to make policies and practices consistent with human rights laws and values; a strong commitment to restorative justice principles; and outreach to historically underserved and marginalized communities throughout the City. It was a privilege to work so closely with the many different people in the City who care about human rights—elected officials, faith leaders, community organizers and activists, legal services providers, business leaders and advocates of every stripe. As a strong believer in utilizing art to advance human rights, I helped engage the Commission’s first-ever artists in residence —amazing activist artists Tatyana Fazlalizadeh, Andre Wagner, and Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya. It is a wonderful and natural evolution of my career to put aside my usual tools of law and policy, and learn this creative approach to human rights while working closely with the dedicated team at Level Forward and being a part of this exciting growing enterprise.

How I Level Forward: root myself in compassion and learning as my north star; lean into growth and change even when it’s uncomfortable; and embrace communities of unicorns and mermaids as my people.