Ms. Natalie Langlaise, a mother and parent leader at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School, participated in CAC’s leadership training. She served as a primary leader in developing the MLK campaign’s organizing strategy and negotiating with city and district officials.
1) What, if any, impact has the Christian Activities Council (CAC) had on your life?
The CAC has impacted my life in many positive ways. Through them, I enhanced my leadership skills and learned how to effectively engage others at both micro and macro levels. Since being involved with the CAC, I am a more confident and capable individual, not afraid to challenge injustice in a professional and well organized manner. The CAC inspired me to believe that I can make a difference in the life of others, so it is no wonder that I am currently in my second year of college majoring in Social Services.
2) What part of the CAC training did you find most helpful/beneficial?
The part of the CAC training that I found to be most helpful/beneficial was the importance of building relationships. I have been utilizing this premise in my continued advocacy and community organizing efforts. Despite different cultures, ethnicities and even financial statuses, I have grown to realize that people all have in common moments of struggle, conflict and even victory. The vulnerability of sharing some of my experiences with others acts as an icebreaker and facilitates trust, which then forms a foundation from which future engagement can blossom.
3) How did it feel to win the fight?
It felt really awesome to win the fight! The awesome part was realizing how much personal growth I achieved throughout the process. The CAC was a great support system for myself and other disenfranchised parents. They stirred within me a renewed awareness that with perseverance, dedication, and hard work all things are possible.
4) What would you say about CAC if someone asked you?
You just have to meet AJ and Cori! CAC is more than just an organization, it’s a vibrant entity made up of people who really care about the concerns and fears of those that they engage. What I loved most about them was how sincerely they responded to my concerns and how committed they were to my cause.
Ms. Langlaise is now a member of the citywide school consolidation task force. She also served on the search committee for Hartford’s new Superintendent.
