“Mariah was amazing! It seemed that every person who engaged with her - whether student, staff, faculty, or community member - felt connected and inspired. I received positive feedback from the students who participated in her training. They left with new tools and ideas for creating social change. And of course wonderful feedback on Mariah’s keynote and performance.”
— Laura Sanchez, Director of the Intercultural Center, Whitman College WA
“Mariah Parker has presented at the UGA College of Education’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Conference for the last two years. And the word “presented” actually doesn’t do justice to the way Mariah deeply engages the audience and unapologetically lays bare the systems of injustice that implicate us all. Mariah’s honesty, passion, and creativity is unmatched, urging the academy to sit with discomfort and vulnerability while also embracing room for growth.”
— Briana Bivens, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office of the College of Education, University of Georgia
“Mariah spoke openly and honestly about how both her personal experiences and generative dialogue with community residents led her to become a performer, an activist, an advocate for civic engagement, and ultimately a County Commissioner. Students described Mariah as “relatable,” “charismatic,” “engaging,” “authentic,” and “inspiring.” I cannot speak highly enough about Mariah’s ability to incite in all of us a desire to take action towards social justice!”
— Christina Hanawalt, Art Education, University of Georgia
“Mariah captivated an audience of 500 high school juniors when she came to speak at our social justice symposium. Her authenticity and approachable style drew the students in and her inspirational message kept them engaged for the entire talk.”
— Tara Stuart, Winder-Barrow High School, Winder GA
“What a fantastic experience it was having Mariah speak to my students! She carefully and thoughtfully outlined her job in a way the students could respond to and understand. The students were engaged listening to her speak and it was wonderful to see them making connections and asking questions. Mariah’s effective, eloquent speech has left a lasting impression on my students, who’ve asked several times for her to return and talk with them again. My sincere hope is that Mariah can return each year to speak to future classes about her knowledge and role in government. Her ability to connect with young people through words is a profound gift that should be shared. “
— Laura Valentine, Chase Street School, Athens, GA
