A Reflection of International Women’s Month with Camille Mackler, Executive Director
Camille Mackler is Immigrant ARC’s Executive Director, a graduate from Georgetown University and New York Law School, a lawyer, and also a mother. In a short Q&A session conducted with her, she discussed the intersection of the above-mentioned roles and how it contributes to her impact as a leader, more specifically, a female leader and role model for her daughter and young women everywhere.
When asked why she chose to go into immigration law, she was eager to explain the personal journey that led her to this point. “Growing up abroad, I saw the United States as this shining city on the hill. I wanted to become a lawyer because I was inspired by what I learned in college about the Bill of Rights and liberties in the US. But when I went to law school, I realized that the image I had of this country in my head wasn’t exactly accurate.” Elaborating on this view of the United States, she mentioned the impact of knowing different types of people from all over the world. Recognizing their struggles, especially those who lived in oppressive places, opened her eyes to the difference immigrating to another country could make in changing someone’s life for the better.
“Growing up with two journalist parents meant that I was confronted with the realities of the people who were oppressed, and that inspired my need to make a difference. That’s why I want to work towards the United States’ promise to live up to its reputation of being a human rights champion and provide promise for everyone else around the world that needs it most.”
Bringing a closer focus to international women’s month, Mackler was asked how being a woman in this industry has empowered her to affect change. Her answer reflected the passion behind her work, as she emphasized that, “A majority of those who work at social justice non-profits are women. These are people who were taught that being passionate about their work was a disadvantage, that is wasn’t in line with being a good leader, and that it made them less effective.” From experience, however, Mackler has found the exact opposite to be true, as her desire to change lives was what led her to create Immigrant ARC.
She mentioned additional struggles that make her realize change is necessary. One example is being asked questions such as, “How does your child cope with your traveling for work?” which she states is not a question she’s ever heard posed to a man. “There are still stereotypes, especially within the field of law. It is unfortunate that women still feel as though they are taken more seriously when they dress up and worry more than men about their appearance playing a role in people listening to the content of their speech.”
Finally, Mackler answered what changes she wishes to see for women in the workplace. “I hope that women won’t have to deal with judgement, and perhaps more importantly, the questioning of their judgement. I want my daughter to live in a world where the choice between a family and a career never occurs to her.” In starting Immigrant ARC, she has set an example for young women that they can achieve their goals with a passionate vision, hard work, and belief in themselves. “I wanted to create an environment that attracts passionate people because those are the ones that will pour their heart and soul into this work. But I also realize our jobs are merely one facet of our lives. We manifest the qualities of passion when we allow ourselves to experience every part of our lives fully, and women should never have to feel the need to choose.” It’s evident that Mackler has created a flexible and welcoming workspace founded on the principles of integrity and inclusion. And perhaps most importantly, passion.
“This is about helping somebody be better off than before they met you. I can’t think of a better way to phrase it than that.”
