Book Signings & Personal Meet & Greets
Hello
Welcome
As a cisgender male, my hope is that our worldwide community will respect "Difference" and no longer marginalize those who are appear unfamiliar. I'd like my book to become a vehicle that initiates conversations and connects us all to the core values of being human, meaning "treat others how you want to be treated".
Dr. Art Background and Bio
Dr. Art Fields has dedicated his career to ensuring equitable delivery of services to all students, with a focus on the black, brown, LGBTQ, special needs and economically challenged populations. After serving his country in the United States Airforce, Art successfully pivoted into the education field first as a teacher, then later as a district level administrator for DC. Public Schools (DCPS). His passion for the less fortunate resulted in being selected for several critical positions including Director of Special Education, Deputy Chief of Youth Engagement (overseeing behavior, attendance, health & wellness, and student placement) and later was appointed as the Special Advisor to the Chancellor, ultimately finishing his twenty five-year career at DCPS as the Chief Integrity Officer. Art holds several degrees including MSW, EML and PHD.
Why I wrote "I Respect Difference"
Growing up in New York City I was able to interact and engage with an extremely diverse "Smorgasbord" of different economic, ethnic, mental health, and sexual orientation human beings. I was blessed to attend one of the most prestigious private schools in the Bronx. In doing so, I learned quickly the power that bullies commanded in targeting those who appear different. As a poplar athlete, I regrettably participated in some of those scenarios. My hope is that this book can positively impact young and old people in a way that shifts that narrative and reduces the potential for marginalization and bullying in society.
The Gender Identity Question
Transgender people have existed for thousands of years. As a marginalized segment of society, for many, the most pressing issues now are isolation, depression and suicide. My goal is that this book will assist humanity in accepting how similar we all are and provide a starting platform to engage in further conversation leading to a better understanding of "Difference".