GBM #7: Iba at Pareho!

This week's GBM was a little more heartfelt and emotionally solemn; Iba at Pareho reminded us that while we all come from different backgrounds, there is beauty in what connects us—we are different (iba), but the same (pareho). After the meeting announcements, our new advisor, Tita Gem, delivered an inspiring message to us. She reminded us that even though we are all different, we should all be respectful to each other and honor our privileges, as well as honor each other.

Des then led the Privilege Walk, where everyone reflected on their own personal experiences, thinking about how privilege shaped their lives today. Seeing where we stood helped us to realize our differences and our shared experiences as human beings. The walk wasn't about comparing each other's lives, but about awareness and empathy, helping everyone recognize that all people carry invisible struggles—as it is human nature—and how compassion can mend those wounds. After the privilege walk and a group discussion, Caleb lifted our spirits and brought everyone into a nice group hug!

To close the night, Ariana reminded all of us why this GBM is called Iba at Pareho. Even though we come from different backgrounds, there is always something that brings us together. She let everyone reflect on their experiences as they wrote a letter to themselves in the future, writing about their achievements in life and the things they aspire to achieve. We'll keep those letters until the end of the year, as a reminder of how far we have all come. As everyone is surrounded by community, friendship, and endearment, we're all reminded that Barkada is more than just a college organization—it's a place where we can grow, heal, and be comfortable with knowing we're never alone, we are a family.