Lesli

Dear Friends,

My name is Lesli Mitchell and I am part of the Orange County leadership of MASC (Multiracial Americans of Southern California)! I am hoping that you will join us in raising money to support mental wellness and healthy relationships in the multiracial/ethnic community. I identify as both African American and Biracial. My mother is Swiss German/Irish, and my father was African American. Reflecting back on my own adolescence, my multiracial experience was not discussed in any depth. When things are not discussed, kids/teens make up their own stories or listen to their peers, leaving them with mistruths or feeling invalidated. Having a safe space to make sense of and explore one’s experience is important. When I acknowledge my full racial/cultural experience, I move in the world more authentically. In a monoracial, relatively segregated society, MASC is committed to acknowledging, validating and celebrating the unique experiences of multiracial/ethnic individuals and families.

At MASC, we create safe spaces where multiracial/ethnic and transracial adoptive individuals and families can build community together, share stories, affirm each other’s experiences and support one another as they navigate peer, familial and societal pressures. Multiracial/ethnic people may feel pressure to choose sides or may feel unique stressors when confronted with peer, familial and societal stereotypes.

With your donations MASC will continue to:

1. Host teen talks to explore belonging, identity, and validate joys and challenges.

2. Organize workshops, panels, discussions to build community, explore challenges and advocate

for all.

3. Coordinate art and cultural events such as Young Artist Showcase, LOMA Film Festival,

Multicultural holiday events and more.

Thank you for supporting MASC!

Lesli

*Donations must be made on the Love Is Giving Day, Wednesday, May 27th.