By Aliza Pantoja

To whom it may concern:

I have written this letter in support of Nevada Humanities. This letter has not been written on behalf of them or as a request from them. We are an organization that has continued to create and support programs that resonate with the people of our state during the recent, uncertain times. I am proud of the work that we do, and I think our group of sometimes nine or more women are a true representation of an organization that tries to create something good in our state. My colleagues and our work inspire me because we have continued to give of ourselves when there might not have been very much left to give. Like many people during these times, I am of course occasionally disheartened, but I find comfort in the knowledge that another person’s flame is alight when mine appears to have gone out. Our group reminds me that the Humanities come to light when people are in need. In fact, the disciplines perhaps do some of their most meaningful and responsive work when certainty is a luxury.

The collective trauma of the current pandemic has gifted me with a layer of gratitude for Humanities councils and for every person who has the desire to share a bit of their light. Over the past two and a half years while I have worked for Nevada Humanities, I have learned that the Humanities are interwoven within people and within our communities. As an advocate for this necessary work, I remind myself to remove steadfast expectations of the Humanities. For example, the Humanities are interwoven into science and humanitarian work. People who surround themselves with the Humanities have a desire to learn, nuture, grow, and create, among many other thoughtful qualities. These people are in service to their community in some way, and sometimes the only thing they dream for in return is to help create connections.

I am honored when my own work is able to express the care I feel for Nevada and for its people, and it has been a privilege to be tasked with learning how to support empathetic and equitable communities. I hope that this letter inspires someone to want to make a connection with us and to also want to help Nevada Humanities continue to make connections.

Sincerely,

Aliza Pantoja

Aliza Pantoja is Nevada Humanities’ Administrative Assistant.

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An Open Letter to Nevada Humanities