For those of you I may have not met yet, my name is Carter Stripp, and I have been interning with Colorado People’s Alliance this summer. I am originally from Williamstown, Massachusetts, but I attend Pitzer College in Claremont, California. In two weeks, I will leave Denver and head off to school for the fall semester. It seems that right when I was just getting deeply involved in the community, developing relationships with many individuals, and feeling connected to the issues that COPA and its members are facing, the time has come for me to leave and say goodbye. Before I left, I wanted to express my gratitude to everyone at COPA: Members, volunteers and staff alike. Thank you for being vulnerable enough to share your stories with me. Thank you for opening up your minds to share your ideas at meetings and events. I appreciate you opening up your hearts and allowing me to fight with you against the dominant narrative and the forces that attempt to batter this community.
Before coming to COPA, I was worried about being an outsider in the community and having limited opportunity to connect with our members in a meaningful way. And while there are so many faces I have yet to meet and stories I have yet to hear, your voices have provided me deeper insight into the issues that we are fighting for. While still COPA is still growing, it is inspiring to have been apart of a young organization with incredible power and such committed staff, members, and volunteers, who will show up for two hour meetings at the end of an already long work day. Embracing vulnerability, stepping in to uncomfortable roles or situations, and challenging both staff and fellow members are pillars of Colorado People’s Alliance. Who else could volunteer so much time to attend numerous trainings to move closer to building power for themselves and those around them?
I am happy and proud to say that I was apart of COPA for the summer. I wish I had more time to interact with this community; However, I look forward to keeping in touch and hearing about the change you all will create and the power you will all build. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
In Solidarity,
Carter Stripp
P.S. I’ll be in town for the next two weeks. If you’d like to reach out and say hello, you can contact me at carter@coloradopeoplesalliance.org.