When Latinas Come Together, We Change Everything – Meet Marilyn Travis
What inspired you to join Remarkably Us?
I joined Remarkably Us because I know that when we bring Latinas together, there is nothing we can’t do. We are powerful. Creating healing spaces that center our lived, unique, and nuanced experiences is critical and inspiring. For me, Remarkably Us represents an opportunity to create a different kind of world—one in which Latinas are cared for, listened to, and trusted to lead the way in pursuit of our own liberation.
What is one of the most rewarding things about being a teacher?
I love staying rooted in the possibilities of how abolitionist curriculum, teaching, and learning can change our world for the better. As a National Board Certified teacher, I became a teacher to cultivate critical consciousness within our communities. The most rewarding thing about being a teacher is seeing our students use history to explain our current realities and design solutions to improve those realities through discussions, assignments, and projects.
What is your go-to self-care routine?
In recent years, I’ve prioritized my physical health. I make sure to get at least eight hours of sleep every night, drink enough water, exercise, and eat balanced meals. My puppy, Fuego, has also helped me build a routine of walking and getting out in the sun. At the end of the day, I do my best to listen to my body and act accordingly.
Mental health is extremely pivotal. As a former foster youth, what is one piece of advice you wish someone had told you regarding mental health?
As a former foster youth, I wish I had started counseling earlier at a location other than my school. I tried it once in my early teenage years, but the stigma, family pressure not to attend, and the interruption to my school day prevented me from continuing. Some of my family members held the perspective that only people who have something wrong with them go to counseling. That’s simply not true.
Having therapists of color is extremely important to me, and I wish I could have started processing the trauma and experiences I endured before, during, and after foster care. I would say: your healing journey is your own, and there are so many people who are going to support you. I judged myself for not being able to make different decisions as an adolescent because I had not yet identified and explored the ways my experiences had shaped my self-perception, reasoning, motives, and view of others.
What was it like defeating the odds by pursuing a master’s degree?
I have always excelled at school despite the odds. After graduating as a valedictorian from high school, I went on to earn two degrees from Stanford University, including my master’s in education through STEP. The 12-month program was hard but not impossible. I had to stay disciplined, manage my stress, and give myself permission to be human. I’m grateful for the community of mentors, colleagues, family, and friends who supported me during this new and challenging season of my life. I threw a huge party at the end to celebrate both degrees.
Tell me a fun fact about yourself.
I’m a twin!
