This can be the hardest part, especially for people new to racial justice work. Engaging in racially mixed settings can trigger age-old power and privilege dynamics. The goal is to enter the process to learn and bridge knowledge gaps, not to take over, lead, and impose solutions.
Stay engaged even when your mind and body start sending you signals to shrink or walk away.
Ask clarifying questions.
Acknowledge what you don’t know.
Journal to process emotions such as shame and anger that can guide you to deeper self-awareness about how power and privilege impacts you.
Find a mentor within your own racial group to support and guide your growth.
Take a course or workshop. Connect with organizations listed above and see what opportunities they offer. The network of people you discover may point you to a class, or finding a class first may point you to a network.
Petition, call, email or write a paper letter and share your concerns about racial injustices. Learn about and support policies put forward by The Movement for Black Lives.
Prepare yourself to interrupt racial jokes and racist comments. Click here for some advice about how.
Organize a film night or book group with family, friends, colleagues, or neighbors to learn and discuss together the dynamics and realities of privilege and power.
Attend an event in your area where issues of power and privilege are being addressed. Universities and bookstores often host speakers who draw the network you’ll want to plug into to keep engaged and motivated.