Episode 6: The Power of Fairness

Send us Fan MailCONTENT WARNING: This episode mentions suicide in the context of racial injustice. Please listen with care. If you or someone you know needs support, call 988 (U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).In this episode of Living in 3D Power, Emma and I explore fairness—what it means, why it matters, and how we can fight for it in a world that often tries to deny it.Together, Emma and I reflect on:* The difference between equality and equity—and why fairness isn’t about giving everyone the same thing, but ensuring people get what they need to thrive.* How Mari Copeny (Little Miss Flint) started fighting for clean water at age 8 and why her activism still matters.* How Katherine Johnson’s fight for recognition at NASA challenges today’s myths about meritocracy.* How Kimberlé Crenshaw’s concept of intersectionality helps us understand why Black women face unique barriers to fairness.Emma offers sharp insights on fairness, power, and why some people resist change. She shares how young people like her can stand up against injustice and what it really means to fight for fairness—not just for yourself, but for your whole community.Chapters:02:44 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)05:37 The Myth of Meritocracy07:37 Social Justice and Equity09:54 The Harm of Colorblind Ideologies17:53 Historical Context and Oppression Olympics25:38 Emma's Perspective on Fairness27:59 Mari Copeny: Little Miss Flint34:46 Celebrating Katherine Johnson: A Hidden Figure40:51 Kimberlé Crenshaw: Intersectionality and Advocacy48:00 The Fight for Fairness: Lessons from History49:07 Call to Action: Building a Better FutureCuriosity Card Prompts for Reflection* Why is fairness important—not just for me, but for the whole community?​* Why is it important for people like Mari Copeny (Little Miss Flint) to keep fighting for change, even when things take a long time to fix?​* Why do people act like fairness for some means unfairness for others?* What are some ways people can help make sure Black girls don’t get left out of opportunities?* How can I stand up for myself and others?​References* “If you can only be tall because someone else is on their knees, then you have serious problem. And white people have a very, very serious problem.” ―Toni Morrison* Maternal Mortality Rates in the United States 2022* "Remaining Awake Through a Great Revolution" by MLK* The Four Pivots: Reimagining Justice, Reimagining Ourselves by Dr .Shawn Ginwright* This Book Is Anti-Racist Connect with Me:Instagram: @natural_inclinationYoutube: @naturalinclinationTikTok: Amber SessomsLinkedIn: Dr. Amber M. Sessoms, NCSPBluesky: @ambersessoms.bsky.socialFacebook: Natural InclinationWebsite: www.aninclination.comLike, Comment, Share, EngageIf this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who would love these conversations. Engage with the Curiosity Cards and ask the youth in your life about their experiences because you might be surprised by what you learn. Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments or on social media using #LivingIn3DPower. And, don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for next week’s conversation!