Arc Telos Saint Amour

Arc Telos “Tay” Saint Amour (they/them) shares the roots of their social justice origin story, discussing experiences including the impact of childhood abuse, violence, abandonment, and systemic oppression on them as a trans, queer, and neurodivergent person. In connecting how their earlier experiences informed their approach to activism for social justice, Tay also explores the role of shame in preventing social progress and growth at the individual, institutional, and societal levels. Tay calls for us all to engage in the work of being honest with ourselves, critical of ourselves and our systems; highlighting the importance of storytelling in driving social justice and the importance of introspection and openness in creating a more equitable world. They also urge listeners to truthfully engage with their own stories and to consider future generations in their actions.