There is a call for ally-ship in transforming racism in our world right now, that is deep, loud, and finally being heard in the white community.
However, many White people are hesitating to take action, uncertain about the most effective and conscious ways to step up, speak out, and take thoughtful action to help end centuries of injustice, oppression, and violence.
Often, in conversations about racism we remain silent because we’re afraid of:
Saying something that might reveal our unconscious biases.
Afraid of getting caught not knowing what we don’t know.
Afraid of offending our friends and colleagues of color.
Afraid of offending our White friends and family by challenging racist comments out for fear of losing these relationships and breaking white solidarity.
To help guide us through these challenges so we can show up as true allies — and actively participate in a global transformation who’s time as come — is my guest
Kimberlee Williams, a diversity, equity and inclusion consultant and coach.
Here Are Some Key Things We Discussed:
- Understanding what white supremacy IS and what it’s NOT. (Hint: it’s not a “White” problem but -something that implicitly lives in everyone (regardless of race) who lives in a White-centric culture.
- Becoming aware of our own implicit racial bias, getting over the need to be “perfect” and learning why it’s inevitable that White people will inadvertently say things to offend People of Color.
- 3 simple and essential steps White people can take when this happens to step out of shame and defensiveness and use these uncomfortable moments as opportunities to re-build trust and forge deeper connections with Black people/People of Color.
- Learning how Black people and White people can interpret what is means to “care” very differently according to their unique cultural norms and how knowing and responding compassionately to these differences is an essential to re-building trust across the racial divide.
Episode Notes:
Kimberlee’s Website: Engaging Across Difference
Contact Kimberlee at engagingacrossdifference@gmail.com
Books Kimberlee mentioned:
White Fragility by Robin D’Angelo
My Grandmother’s Hands by Resmaa Manakem
