EP 17 | Allies, Advocates & Operatives: Stepping Up for Change w/Mary Jo Honiotes

Mary Jo Honiotes (Honey-Otis) comes to us from Denver, Colorado and joins us this episode to highlight the importance of moving past superficial conversations to truly understand the barriers faced by marginalized communities. She owns and operates a medicaid agency, helping people who are living in poverty find affordable, independent housing. Prior to this work, and continuing through this work, Mary Jo is a mindfulness educator and student. She has a BA in communications and an MA in Consciousness Studies. She is a gifted facilitator, an experienced public speaker, spiritual coach and director. People are the spice of her life and she comes from a legacy of "equity" for all. Through her role at Centers for Spiritual Living and involvement with the RAARE Women Collective, she has learned the value of listening and building trust within multicultural settings. We discuss how white women can become safe spaces for authentic discussions about racism and equity, and the necessity of integrating racial equity into our daily lives. We shared a moment of reflection on Kamala Harris's nomination and the growing responsibility of white women to step into spaces of racial equity, even when it means confronting our own fears of making mistakes. We then focus on the distinction between being an ally, advocate, and operative, and how active engagement in support roles can drive meaningful change. Together, we explore practical strategies for civic engagement, the importance of support systems, and building trust through tangible actions. By embracing uncharted territories with courage, we illustrate the potential for unprecedented learning and growth. Join us on this heartfelt journey towards collective success, grounded in the bravery required to venture into new paths. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices