First Generation Programming Services
Welcome back, First Gens! Can you believe it’s already the last week of the month? That means that we are closing out this month’s theme, Advocating as a First Gen, with one more solo episode!
Advocating as a First Gen
As we’ve discussed throughout the month, advocating for yourself isn’t something most of us were taught growing up. A lot of us come from families who, out of fear and survival, discouraged speaking up. Phrases like “Calladita te ves más bonita” (you look prettier when you’re quiet) or warnings not to “rock the boat” were common. If we dig deeper into our families’ histories, it makes sense. For example, I share a bit about my Cuban family, who experienced a dictatorship where advocating for themselves wasn’t an option. Even after coming to the U.S., that fear stuck around, telling them they had to stay quiet to stay safe.
But I am here to tell you the truth: advocacy is necessary. Learning to stand up for ourselves helps us break cycles and create better opportunities. Unfortunately, many of us were not taught how to advocate for ourselves in school either. I share how my social work education emphasized advocating for others. But personal advocacy? That was something I had to figure out on my own. I didn’t truly start advocating for myself until about two or three years ago, and it’s still a work in progress.
So, how do you start?
Here are three ways I advocate for myself that may help you begin your journey:
1. Advocating for Better Pay & Flexibility at Work
Talking about money might feel uncomfortable, but advocating for fair pay is crucial. Shedding limiting beliefs about being “grateful for what you have” might be hard, but each time you negotiate your worth, you will be sure to gain some confidence. The first time I secured a higher rate, I cried. It was the most I had ever been paid, and it felt empowering to know I can make it happen.
2. Setting Boundaries with Family
As a recovering people-pleaser, saying no has always been difficult for me. But setting boundaries with family has been one of the most rewarding ways I have learned to advocate for myself. When I communicate my needs, I prevent resentment from building up, and I have learned that things often don’t go as badly as anticipated.
3. Knowing Your Worth
Imposter syndrome can really hold you back. But once you start believing in your potential, you can become a stronger advocate for yourself. I share that I feel lucky to have mentors who advocated for her. However, I also learned that no one could advocate for us better than we can for ourselves.
Advocacy can be exhausting, but aligning yourself with a supportive community makes the journey easier. You’ve got this! And remember, you Madrina is always here to help you along the way. For more information, follow me on instagram here https://www.instagram.com/thefirstgenmadrina/or LinkedIn here https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-diaz-lcsw/!
The First Gen Madrina/The Social Work Madrina
If you are a University, College, Company or Organization, The First Gen Madrina offers workshops on a variety of topics (such as imposter syndrome, time management, managing burnout, building a self-care plan, etc..), custom built mentorship programs as well as customized services tailored to your needs.
In order to follow along, remember to rate, review, and subscribe to The First Gen Madrina Podcast to stay connected. Also, follow on Instagram and LinkedIn @thefirstgenmadrina and Sara Diaz, LCSW. Sara acknowledges that the term first gen can be fluid, so The First Gen Madrina is committed to supporting all first gens! This isn’t just about breaking barriers—it’s about providing unwavering support that propels individuals to embrace life’s challenges and triumphs.
Also, in case you have missed it, I recently announced a new branch of The First Gen Madrina called The Social Work Madrina. The Social Work Madrina will bring intentional support to social workers and more programming on mental health. Within TSWM, you will find The Madrina Network: A Community for Social Workers!
The community will be kicking off in March, just in time for National Social Work Month! Our community deserves more support, guidance and resources.
Soooooo are you ready? Here are some highlights of the community!
Monthly zoom calls to discuss the successes, challenges and needs of the social work community.
Opportunity to network with fellow social workers from all over the U.S!
Monthly workshops with different social work-related themes.
Optional coaching time with me for additional support!
Stay tuned in the upcoming weeks for more information! Check out thefirstgenmadrina.com/themadrinanetwork for more information soon!
¡Hasta pronto!
