To kick off Black History Month, Palo Alto High School’s Social Justice Club and Black Student Union hosted guest speaker Julie Lythcott-Haims at the Media Arts Center on Feb 6, who elaborated on the power of diversity and the importance of self-love.
Lythcott-Haims spoke about her childhood, sharing vulnerable stories of racism and her struggles with self acceptance as she grew older.
“I’ve been made to loathe myself, to not like myself as a Black person,” Lythcott-Haims said. “As a biracial person, admitting that to myself relieved me of the burden of feeling that way, and I became this person who could simply love herself for who I am.”
She has an extensive background in the Palo Alto community. From being a student, then dean at Stanford, to author and member of the Palo Alto City Council. Lythcott-Haims is also the only woman in the congressional race this year.
Christian Saleh, president of the Social Justice Club said that the speaker event highlighted her growth as a minority student.
“The event was fully focused on her personal journey,” Saleh said. “The purpose was not to promote her congressional campaign in any way.”
Growing up in a predominantly white community, Lythcott-Haims said she wished there were more role models that looked like her growing up.
“We need teachers that look like us,” Lythcott-Haims said. “We need neighbors that look like us and mentors and friends and elected leaders. When someone has walked our pathway, they’re more likely to be able to relate to what we struggle with or what we dream about.”
Lythcott-Haims said she was finally able to accept herself after working with a coach and opening up about her struggles.
“In my late 30’s, I began to journey towards self love,” Lythcott-Haims said. “And let me tell you, when you finally love yourself, no matter what anyone thinks of you, self love is the most powerful tool you’ve got.”