Reflections from the Anti-Racist Book Club
Our last community read featured Me and White Supremacy by Layla F. Saad where participants responded to journaling prompts, used self-reflection to grow, and discussed their experiences of systemic racism.
Here is what some of the community read participants had to say:
”The regular practice of reading, responding to prompts and then having the group as an anchor of safety and accountability changed everything for me! I was able to dig in and feel comfortable being uncomfortable with new language and ideas that I can now continue to work on and then share.
Lisa Hamilton
That for me I need to be actively anti-racist in order to unpack all the years of racism from living in a world based on colonialism. This is the beginning and I feel good about looking more deeply at the places that I haven't yet explored & begin to unpack. New resources are my priority!
”The practice of saying things out loud within the group was excellent practice, and helped me not just to practice the words that needed to be said but also the feeling of discomfort that comes with saying them that we MUST learn to endure. I've had a couple of places in conversations since beginning this group where I have felt certain I spoke up where I wouldn't have before.
Carol McMurrich
”The discussions were particularly helpful. It took it beyond my comprehension of the book and my own reflection. Everyone else's experiences and ideas made me think more deeply about my own. Most importantly, it helped me listen and engage without assumption or judgment, which is critical for initiating these conversations with friends and family.
Anonymous
I need to consistently, steadily prioritize this work in my professional and personal life. The realities of racism and white supremacy are always present and thus so is the responsibility/opportunity to address them.
”I was inspired by the discussions and invigorated by the accountability I felt to others participating. I actively pushed my boundaries and comfort levels by reflecting upon my impact and my unconscious biases.
Kelley Bryant
I was anxious to begin this journey and how I could be perceived personally and professionally, but I was not alone in these fears and I have gained strength from knowing that others are starting and continuing this journey as well.
If you are considering opportunities for growth along an anti-racism journey and are seeking support to strengthen your commitment, consider joining our fall community read. We will be reading When They Call You A Terrorist: A Black Lives Matter Memoir by Patrisse Khan-Cullors and Asha Bandele.
This next group will begin mid-September and follow a similar pace on a bi-monthly schedule. There will be space for self-reflection and journaling and time held for virtual meetings to come together as a group to share and discuss. Read more about the book and sign up for the next book group through the button below.
