Q: What is racism?
A: There are many definitions to describe racism. My favourite is by Ibram X. Kendi: “Racism is a marriage of racist policies and racist ideas that produces and normalizes racial inequities… Racial inequity is when two or more groups are not standing on approximately equal footing… A racial policy is any measure that produces or sustains racial inequity between racial groups… A racial idea is any idea that suggests one racial group is inferior to another racial group in any way" (p. 17-18, How to Be an Antiracist).
Q: What are the differences among racism, prejudice, and discrimination?
A: I like how Robin Diangelo differentiates among these three terms. She writes: “Prejudice is prejudgment about another person based on the social group to which that person belongs… Discrimination is action based on that prejudice… Racism...occurs when a racial group’s prejudice is backed by legal authority and institutional control” (p. 19-21, White Fragility: Why It’s Hard for White People To talk About Racism).
Q: Why does addressing racism matter?
A: Racism is one of the fastest ways to erode belonging. Racism impacts the health and well-being of people, workplaces and communities. When we understand that racism is part of an interconnected system, we can begin to work together to transform these systems of exclusion into cultures of belonging. This means influencing both people and systems. Not only is addressing racism the right thing to do, it is an imperative in our rapidly changing world. When we address racism and build a culture of belonging in our families, workplaces and communities, we can harness all our strengths and talents so that we can generate the collaboration and innovation the world needs now more than ever.
Q: What are reflective learning practices?
A: Reflective learning practices can be a powerful tool to internalize principles, values and practices, and respond in an agile way to emerging challenges and opportunities inherent in addressing a complex social issue like racism. Addressing racism is not a one-time event, but rather an ongoing practice of reflection and focused action. Experience doesn’t teach us, but reflecting on our experience does.
Q: How will I be able to use the information and skills I learn?
A: You will learn how to address racism within yourself, your workplace and community.
Q: What if I have questions about the training content?
A: When you register, you’ll have access to a 3-month bonus of Community of Practice calls. Collect any questions you have from the trainings and bring them to the call for us to discuss and provide support.
Q: Can I access the recordings offline?
A: You'll have access through the membership site to download Part 1-3 video files, audio files, and all PDF materials for permanent access on your own computer.
Q: I still have questions... Can I talk to someone?