"We have to commit to the process if we want to address race, racism, and racial oppression in our society.”
- Ijeoma Oluo
How does the quote above resonate with you?
Pause here for a moment and free yourself from distractions:
Take a deep breath in... exhale slowly... deep breath in... exhale slowly... deep breath in... exhale slowly... calm your mind and be present...
In light of recent events, it is almost impossible to avoid the topic of race, racism, and racial oppression.
It doesn’t matter what country you’re from, your gender identification, age, profession or any other status you care to include, the subject can no longer be ignored.
On a scale of 1 - 10, how comfortable are you with talking about race?
... Think about that for a moment...
In what ways does this conversation change if it is with friends as opposed to family?
...Is it easier with one group then it is with the other...
When topics of race come up, how is your comfort level affected when you are among a racially mixed group of friends?
...Think about it... is it different...harder... easier... why....
What is your reaction when you hear an inappropriate comment or joke that is racially insensitive?
...be honest, do you laugh at the punchline, speak up against it, or say nothing at all...
What about at your place of employment:
How has your work environment established a culture where ALL employees feel welcomed, included, and comfortable speaking up about matters of race?
....All being the key word... if you don't know, how will you find out...?
How do you respond when confronted with racial inequity at work?
...think about it... whether you're the victim or witness... can you recall an incident..?
We have all been in that uncomfortable situation directly or indirectly at some point.
So You Want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo is a book I highly recommend. It guides readers of all races, through a variety of subjects, in an attempt to make the seemingly impossible possible: honest conversations about race and racism, and how it infects almost every aspect of American life. You can't change what you don't acknowledge and just because it wasn't your experience, doesn't mean it doesn't exist.
“These are very scary times for a lot of people that are just now realizing that’s America is not, and has never been, the melting-pot utopia that their parents and teachers told them it was.” -Ijeoma Oluo
We have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable.
How will your conversations begin and or change around the subject of racism?
Think about that for a moment...
Oluo's book establishes the definition of racism to be the following:
Racism: is any prejudice against someone because of their race, when those views are reinforced by systems of power.
I feel the energy of positive change in the air. I know it will not be easy. I believe we can get there if everyone commits to the process. Don’t loose hope. Be willing to speak up as well as listen. Be patient and open to other perspectives. Everyone is affected by racism. Let’s learn and grow together.
What will you do to be part of the solution to ending racial oppression?
Be intentional, encourage others to do the same and watch what happens.
You got this!
Coach Tavia
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