Amanda Helton

Background

About Amanda Helton

My professional journey began on the front lines of social work within a HUD-funded rapid rehousing program in rural Tennessee, where I was confronted with the tangible repercussions of colonial legacies—poverty, healthcare disparities, and systemic neglect. These experiences were not just eye-opening; they were a call to action, highlighting the necessity of addressing the root causes of such inequities, deeply embedded in colonialism, systemic racism, white supremacy, exploitation, and imperialism. Burnt out by social work but driven by a desire to deepen my understanding of these complex issues, I pursued a Master’s in Art History. This path was more than an academic endeavor; it was a journey into the heart of how art reflects and challenges societal norms, identity politics, community bonds, and historical narratives, often intertwined with colonial histories. Art, in my experience, serves as a powerful medium for reflection, critical discourse, and envisioning decolonial futures where healing and justice are possible. My personal and professional experiences, enriched by my active involvement in the queer community and sexual health advocacy networks, have underscored for me the urgency of decolonial work both personally and collectively. This work demands that we, as helping professionals, confront our complicity and power within colonial structures/systems, striving not to merely apply band-aids to gaping wounds but to take responsibility for highlighting, for naming the root causes of these societal afflictions. As I seek practicum sites to gather clinical hours, my aim is to fuse my background in art, advocacy, and education with a decolonial approach that seeks to dismantle oppressive structures and foster spaces for authentic healing and empowerment. This commitment drives my passion for creating empathetic, safe environments that encourage personal growth and societal transformation from a foundation of equity and justice. I invite connections with individuals and organizations that share a dedication to decolonial practices, to explore collaborative efforts aimed at healing the wounds inflicted by colonial legacies. Together, we can contribute to a world where healing is grounded in a profound understanding of and response to the historical and ongoing impacts of colonialism.