Fellow White People, Let's Talk
This is a brief PICTURE tour, created with love and respect for my fellow white people, of a racial justice discussion.
Wherever you are in your journey, as Erica Courdae says (3rd photo from the end), “It’s better to be a beginner than to continue in silent complicity.” As a lifelong teacher-learner, I try not to assume too much knowledge. I also value a thoughtful, honest, long-range approach over the panic and “performative” activity I see among many white people right now. YES there is guilt and shame — as there should be if we’re not sociopaths — as well as all the other feelings as we navigate this critical time in our nation’s development and in our own psyches. Let’s take a deep breath; look inward; keep reading and listening to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color; and put that uncomfortable energy to good use, creating a more just world, each in our own way.
Click on the photos for links to the resources cited. Please go all the way to the end, where your IMAGINATION is called for. 🙏🏽
The old “Dream” — the American Dream — was only ever intended for white America, and it worked great for a while, keeping us ignorant. This is the Dream we’re called to wake up from.
This is how I shift from feeling paralyzed to feeling powerful again: through creative problem-solving.
Sign in a neighborhood shop window.
My white-Filipina daughters hear that 4th one too often.
This is an excellent discussion about common white behaviors that have unintended consequences. Perfect for “beginners” and as a refresher course.
It’s time to revise the Dream, and to make it available to every person of every skin color and background.
What’s the future YOU imagine? It can’t happen until we visualize it. Print this page or doodle your own! 🤓
I’m still an awkward, imperfect ally, even after 30+ years working toward social justice and equality in education and the arts. It’s a life-long journey, and I’ve been fortunate to have safe spaces for honest questions and conversations along the way. Feel free to reach out to me if you do not have a safe space to ask questions. The only way to get to a better place is by going directly through the messy, painful, confusing middle. Remember: No one is truly free until everyone is free. That’s enough motivation for me to continue on.
With love,
Pam
P.S. For ways to support Black-owned businesses, check out this page.