Dr. JaeRan Kim, associate professor of Social Work and Criminal Justice at the University of Washington, talks about the origins of her non-linear path to Social Work and her dedication to social justice, shaped by her personal experiences as a transracial and transnational adoptee from Korea.
She describes how becoming a parent herself, meeting other Korean adoptees, traveling to Korea, and starting her BSW program with all BIPOC instructors and mentors were transformative experiences that helped give her the structural lens she needed to understand her life experiences.
Her storytelling highlights the impact of community, mentorship, and the importance of lived experience in shaping social justice work, emphasizing the need for systemic change to support and empower those with direct experience with the issues. Dr. Kim prioritizes community-based projects and is the author of the blog, Harlow’s Monkey.
In addition to following Dr. Kim on Harlow's Monkey, you can connect with her on Instagram @harlows_monkey, and LinkedIn @jaerankimphd.
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Social Justice Origin Stories is produced, edited, and hosted by Relando Thompkins-Jones.
I am a social worker, social justice educator, writer, and organizational consultant who works to advance equity and social justice within people, organizations, and communities.
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