-
I was born Lamar Anthony Christopher Edmondson.
Ecological System: Microsystem
Developmental Stage: Trust vs. Mistrust -
-
During this period, my mother and father co-parented me, with my mother serving as my
primary caregiver. My father was in the army and provided financial support, while my mother
worked at the post office and sold narcotics on the side. Despite living in the inner city, we
were financially stable. This was one of the happiest times in my life, filled with structure and
security.
Ecological System: Exosystem
Developmental Stage: Initiative vs. Guilt / Industry vs. Inferiority -
-
-
My mother became involved in an altercation and was charged with aggravated assault,
leading to her incarceration and a felony record. My sister and I had to live with relatives,
leaving behind the stability we knew. This sudden separation created fear and uncertainty.
Ecological System: Exosystem
Developmental Stage: Industry vs. Inferiority. -
When my mother was released from prison, our lives changed dramatically. Her felony limited her job opportunities, lowering her socioeconomic status. We moved to a different neighborhood, and my mother developed a substance use disorder as her mental health declined. This experience showed the impact of rehabilitation on felons.
Ecological System: Macrosystem
Developmental Stage: Industry vs. Inferiority -
Because of ongoing financial hardship, my parents decided that I should live with my father,
who could provide more stability. I relocated to El Paso, Texas, to live with him and his wife.
The shift from Cleveland’s inner city to the suburbs of El Paso was a major cultural shock.
This move made me aware of differences in privilege, access, and opportunity.
Ecological System: Macrosystem
Developmental Stage: Industry vs. Inferiority -
-
Me during my time in El Paso. -
I returned to Cleveland, and our financial situation stabilized slightly. During middle school, I
began struggling with my sexuality and the bullying that followed. These experiences
deepened my empathy for those being discriminated against and strengthened my sense of advocacy to fight for those experiencing similar treatment.
Ecological System: Microsystem
Developmental Stage: Identity vs. Role Confusion -
-
I graduated from high school in 2006 and came out as gay. I found employment and moved
into a neighborhood that was affordable but unsafe. Exploration and early adulthood challenges marked this period. Being on my own and independent, I learned the importance of integrity during this time.
Ecological System: Microsystem / Mesosystem
Developmental Stage: Identity vs. Role Confusion -
-
Several major events shaped this period. I started community college in 2007 but struggled academically and was dismissed. I then began working at the library shortly afterward. In 2011, I was robbed, which forced me to move. In 2015, I faced a DUI charge, leading to jail, rehabilitation, and probation. These experiences tested my resilience and accountability but also fostered empathy for others facing similar barriers.
Ecological System: Exosystem
Developmental Stage: Intimacy vs. Isolation -
-
As much as I could, I started advocating for individuals who couldn't speak up for themselves. Nonetheless, it was during the COVID-19 pandemic that I began assisting library clients with applications for benefits and support services. It inspired me to pursue a career in social work, driven by my desire to serve people. In 2022, I completed my Associate's Degree in Social Work and enrolled in Arizona State University.
Ecological System: Mesosystem
Developmental Stage: Intimacy vs. Isolation -
-
After completing my Bachelor's Degree in Community Advocacy and Social Policy, I enrolled in a Master of Social Work program. I am in a phase where I am using empowerment to transform lived experiences into leadership, advocacy, and systemic awareness.
Ecological System: Macrosystem / Mesosystem
Developmental Stage: Intimacy vs. Isolation -
