Rising

From a Mud Hut to the Boardroom—and Back Again

By: Graci Harkema

Narrated by: Graci Harkema

An identity that spans the globe.

In this astonishing memoir, Graci Harkema revisits her experience growing up as an adoptee from the Congo in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She traces her path to claiming and living her own story, becoming a successful consultant on diversity, equity and inclusion, racial justice, LGBTQ+ equality, and women in business.

Born amid civil unrest in a mud hut in the Congo and weighing a mere three pounds, Harkema was left at an orphanage, where she was not expected to live another day. But that afternoon, a visiting American missionary saw her sleeping in a doll’s bed and heard a voice inside her say, “This is your daughter.”

Her childhood was spent wishing to be lighter and blonder, like her siblings and classmates. Out of fear of standing out even more from her peers, Harkema kept her sexuality a secret, only coming out of the closet years later—during a job interview! Eventually, she learned to see her identity as her superpower, instead of her shame.

Today, Harkema helps embrace diversity and drive inclusion to ensure open and safe work environments. She is committed to empowering employees to perform to their potential as their authentic selves—setting an example as she continues to live her own story, journeying to meet her birth mother, to discover one more piece of herself

©2023 Graci Harkema (P)2023 Graci Harkema

Graci, Thank You!

I recently had the pleasure of seeing Graci speak at a realtor's continuing education event on DEI. I'm from Lansing, Michigan, and grew up immersed in diverse cultures and situations. As a GenXr, we grew up watching Sesame Street and The Big Blue Marble - where did it all go sooooo wrong?! Thank you Graci for your courage to tell your story and to champion your own identity and beliefs. So many times we are held back from our true selves by the opinions of others and don't realize that we do have the strength within us to better our situation and to help others at the same time. I hope you weren't too late for that presentation at MSU after our meeting and that the Spartans treated right. Melissa J. King, CAP-OM, Virtual Assistant, www.1lasteye.com.

Powerful, Engaging and thought provoking

I was beyond impressed by Graci’s vulnerability, honesty and reflection. She gave so much insight through her story. It empowers me in my own journey and I definitely felt seen as I listened. Graci has such a beautiful story and it’s such a gift that she has had the courage to share and tell her story to the world. Beyond words and I’m so proud :)

Graci is an amazing storyteller, philosopher and human being.

I have been honored to know and love Graci for nearly 20 years. If you want to learn about rising from diversity, dealing with difficult times, making a difference, being an ally to family and friends who don’t have your privileges, and simply growing as a person, read and/or listen to her story.

What a story!

Graci draws the reader in from the beginning with an almost unbelievable story of perseverance, survival & arriving into your authentic self. Her story captured my attention & I hung on every single word. She passionately leads the listener through her journey in a society where she was “the other” for so many years before forging her own place where she stands confidently today.

Inspiring overall and a must add to your DEI, LGBTQ+ and/or transracial adoption research.

A Must Read

This is such a great memoir. I know Graci and she's such an amazing person. I'm happy she is sharing her story.

Powerful story

Graci Harkema’s story is compelling and powerful. I found I wanted more memoir, more details about her life, and less instruction. The best parts of the book are when she shares her own experiences and truths; the weakest parts are when she addresses the reader with questions and instruction, which tend to be generic statements.

Still, I’m glad I listened to her reading the book.

Important, Courageous, Relevant

So impressed with Graci’s story, as well as the reading of her memoir. Poignant, honest. It will inspire you to use your own voice in your daily interactions. I also appreciate the meaningful conclusion directly from where Graci’s story began.

Living your truth!

Graci is a true embodiment of living in your truth and following the path God has carved out for each person! Thank you for sharing your unique story with the world. Let Go, Let God!

A Relatable Story for Adoptees

I love how this book captured Graci's brave and compelling story AND her spirit as a teacher. Even as a domestic adoptee, I found many aspects of her story deeply relatable but appreciated the call to dive deeper with further resources on other subjects.

Amazing!

Graci's story was so compelling. I appreciated her openness and her willingness to tell her story. She has done amazing things in her life and I am so glad she shared her perspective!