We recently connected with Dr. Van Bailey and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Van, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
I have learned to leverage my power in those spaces. Even though, I may be the only person who may look like myself or have one aspect of identity that is most salient in that space, I still try to find points of connection to people.
For instance, although, as a masculine presenting trans person some people may believe I identify as a man due to how I visually present. However, as a nonbinary trans person, I am able to connect with people across the gender spectrum because of my gender history. I am able to advocate for more effective support for women and girls, because I have experienced sexism firsthand and I am able to push men and boys to understand their part in patriarchy. Why? Because I know the experience of benefiting from systems that center masculinity and men.
For me, success looks like showing how complex identity really is and to not assume I may be the only person from other aspects of identity, such as being trans or a person with a disability. I find power in relationships and community.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am a Black person of trans experience from North Carolina. I have been engaged in advocacy work for nearly 20 years. I am the owner of Van Bailey & Co., which is an equity-centered firm focused on restoration and transformation of organizational culture. I believe it is important to envision a world where we all have access to the things we need. I believe it is important to focus on the barriers that keep people from accessing healthy, caring work environments.
Additionally, I am a model who advocates for more visibility of full-figure Black trans bodies in the fashion industry. I’ve always loved fashion because it was how I am able to define myself for myself. It is my act of resistance and self-definition. In a world that attacks bodily autonomy, it is my path to resist outside forces that try to define and sharpen my queer gender expression. I am excited to launch a clothing capsule collection and talk to brands about size and gender inclusivity.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Being empathetic, curious, and humble is very important to me. Cultural humility has grounded me in the fact that I won’t and don’t know everything when it comes to identity and intersections of oppression. It is important to listen. To lean into connection and empathy, ask people to share their narratives, and remain curious about their stories. I encourage people to take more one-on-one meetings with people. Value your connections with people and build a network that champions your work and value in work spaces.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
Breath work and being intentional with my time has been a lifesaving tactic since becoming a consultant and freelancer. With being laid off from work, I’ve been seeking clients who value and want to work with Black trans people. I want to work with clients who desire to transform their workspace cultures to be inclusive environments that value wellness and community care.
When I feel overwhelmed, gratitude grounds me. Pausing to reconnect with my breath and sit with the power of my ancestral lineage. Knowing that I have generations who support me, reminds me that I am never alone and to keep going.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.drvanbailey.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr__handsome/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drvanbailey
Image Credits
Stud Model Project @nerdscarf DapperQ
