Hope Williams

Director, Professional Development Program

RIT/NTID

Hope Williams is the Manager of NTID Professional Development Program.

What is your nationality/how do you identify?
Black or African American (no preference), female.

What or who has been your biggest cultural influence?
My biggest cultural influence has been my mother. She is a model of ethnic inclusivity and she taught me to appreciate, and accept, all cultures.

What is your favorite cultural dish?
Sweet potato pie!

What would you like people to know about your culture?
We have a deep sense of pride, and our culture is rooted in family, spirituality, and hard work. African Americans have made significant contributions in every aspect of society and are responsible for many advances in science, aeronautics, medicine, business, technology, and the arts. Most of these contributions are omitted from American History books and mainstream media.

From your lens, how can the larger community better support POC, like yourself?
Be willing to learn about, and accept, Black history as it is continually revealed. Develop empathy for people of other cultures, and commit to being anti-racist.

Do you have any resources to share for someone who would like to learn more about your culture?