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Donated Artwork by Esmé ("Ez") Rodriguez |
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About this Piece:
My work begins with curiosity—with questioning the expectations that society places on others, and the ways those expectations shape how we see ourselves and one another. I believe we are only true experts of our own lived experience. Navigating identity is already complex, and at the same time, it requires openness and courage to create safe and inclusive spaces where others can share their diverse identities as well. As human beings, we all carry a deep need for belonging. When that belonging is challenged or disrupted, it can lead to profound struggles with mental and emotional well-being. My art is rooted in the vision that if we approach one another with intentional openness, inviting others to sit at the table without judgment, we may eventually build a society where mental, emotional, and physical health become our shared values and have room to flourish. In a world where so much feels confusing and divided, my work acts as a quiet knock at the door. It humbly asks viewers to stretch, not only in their understanding of others, but also in their understanding of themselves.Through this, I hope to spark moments of connection, reflection, and ultimately, a true sense of healthy belonging for all people. About the Artist |
| Esmé (“Ez”) Rodrı́guez, PhD, (they/them) is the Equality Florida Senior Manager of Professional Learning and has been an 8-year transplant to Florida after living for 18 years in beautiful and snowy Minneapolis, MN. They are also a Nationally Certified Welcoming Schools Facilitator with the Human Rights Campaign and the former Vice President of Legislation & Policy for Florida’s Kaleidoscope PTA. They also serve as an Ethics Selection Board Member for Hypatia Collaborative. Ez is committed to working with leaders in education, business, health care, faith communities and partner organizations to ensure the creation of safe, equitable, and healthy environments in which ALL youth and adults can thrive, learn and reach their full potential as whole, authentic individuals. Ez has a Master’s Degree from Boston College and studied their PhD at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis. Their personal and professional goals are to form coalitions and relationships, which aid in the breakdown of systems which create and maintain oppression, violence, and inequality. Ez is a nonbinary, Latinx educator, activist, and artist. They also taught Gender Studies and Latin American Literature at the university level for 13 years. Ez also enjoys vegetarian sushi, downhill skiing, NFL, and college football. GO BRONCOS! GO GATORS! |
