NOMINEES - JULIE HICKS & DONNA NELSON (SPONSOR

veteran | 20 years in the u.s. army

“Be the Change you want to see in the world. ”

- Julie Hicks

Julie Hicks

What is your perspective of patriotism?

Patriotism is learning to love the country in which I served for 20 years despite its shortcomings. It means being able to teach my children not to lose faith in our justice system. It means teaching them to fight against injustice with words and knowledge. This country is far from perfect, but the people that live in it are well worth the sacrifice. Patriotism means treating the persons that have served with honor and respect.

What do you do, post active duty?

I currently work at the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA Rock Mountain Network). I am an Administrative Officer in Supply Chain Management. I am also the President of the VA Rock Mountain Network Employee Association.

What advice would you give to others transition into civilian life?

This next phase of life is important to make a goals list. Start with a well-thought-out plan. Research the possible career choice if you chose to work. Consider the education and experience you will need to attain your career choice. Consider volunteering in your chosen field or doing a job shadow. This will give you a better idea of whether you want to do this for the next phase in your life.

What are things that people should consider before they decide to serve their country?

The first and only consideration is what freedom means to you! How will serving in the military change your life, habits, and outlook? Then you can truly “be the change you want to see in the world.”

Read Full Interview at

myblackcolorado.com/military

Donna Nelson

A former U.S. Army Medic

I joined in 1988, and I served in the Army for nine years. I was an Army medic, and my first assignment was Germany, where I was stationed in Nürnberg in Southern Bavaria. I loved it.

What is your perspective when it comes to black women displaying patriotism?

I see things differently now than I did when I joined the Army, and I am still proud to be an American. At the time, I was very proud of my country, and I couldn’t wait to buy my first home, get an American flag, and fly it out in front of the home.

Now, it kind of has kind of a different meaning. Disruption within our civil system has taken that away and changed it, which drives me crazy. I definitely love the country that I live in, but I want it to be a better country. I know we can be better as a country, especially towards black women and black people as a whole. I’m still proud, but I am definitely torn with the truth and reality of our situations.

Over the last 10 years, I have really taken it upon myself to learn more and educate myself on the things that were not taught to me. I’m not sure whether that was intentional or not. I hadn’t taken the time to learn more about different cultures, particularly African Americans and Native Americans, and the ways we have been oppressed and kept silenced by the dominant group.

I’m a little bit sad that it took me so long to educate myself on these things, but I’m glad that I finally did. Fortunately, in the past couple of years, more things have been brought to light nationally and internationally. I’m glad that many people are waking up and educating themselves because we’re not going to be given the information. We have to seek it ourselves.

Read Full Interview at

myblackcolorado.com/military

veteran | 9 years in the u.s. army

“I see things differently now than I did when I joined the Army, and I am still proud to be an American.”