International Voices 2025

International Voices is an award winning annual publication of the writing and artwork of Westchester Community College students. As always,represented here are just some of the many diverse perspectives of the Westchester Community College community.

I cannot recall a time in my career when the voices of marginalized groups felt more threatened. It is astonishing and profoundly disheartening to see decades of progress slip back into the demonization of the “other” that was so comfortable for so long. When the public narrative is controlled by this destructive impulse, it is more important than ever to lift the voices of the most vulnerable among us so that all can hear.

Hearing those voices benefits everyone. It creates empathy despite difference. Negative stereotypes about groups of people melt away when perspectives are shared through art and writing, showcasing that these are HUMAN voices that deserve to be heard. Our shared humanity is often lost in the labels we put on people and the boxes we put them it. Yes,we have differences, sometimes profound ones, but these differences are what defines our shared humanity. History has shown us many times the severe consequences of dehumanizing people who are different from the majority—displacement, violence, oppression, and even genocide. What we don’t always understand is its effect on the perpetrators: the act of dehumanizing another dehumanizes oneself.

As you read this issue of International Voices, I hope that you enjoy the creative expression of our amazingly talented students as I have. More so,I hope some piece of this publication speaks to you in a way that is new or unexpected, that challenges your thinking and opens your eyes to new ideas, and maybe even inspires you.