Philadelphia Councilmember Helen Gym joined our Upper School Assembly for an inspiring discussion with students, focusing on Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

​I believe AAPI history is the history of Philadelphia, of America, and is a fundamental human history. It is our experiences that define us," she said. "Knowing who you are and where you came from will teach you where you need to go."

A joint effort from the GFS Asian Students Alliance and the DEI Office, Helen shared her experiences and stories as an Asian American woman, and how she has used those experiences to fight for justice. As the first Asian American woman to serve in Philadelphia’s City Council, she has led prominent campaigns, including the successful opposition to a proposed stadium and casino in Philadelphia Chinatown, winning a federal civil rights settlement requiring schools to address bullying and racial harassment, and campaigns against the inhumane detention and deportation of immigrants. She is also a former school teacher and journalist, and co-founded Parents United for Public Education, a citywide parent group that builds parent voice and works for quality, equity, and transparency in school budgets. 

"When you have a moment to change something, you have to take it," she said. "Every single young person in this audience is going to be the first at something. The most important thing is kicking the door open, whether you're wearing kitten heels, stilettos, or combat boots."