Conver-race-tion™

It should be noted that people may have a hard time figuring out how to begin a conversation about race; how to do it in ways that are meaningful, nonjudgemental (for what one may say) on their journey of discovery, and to allow one to grow and better understand another race of people.  

All participants must be in what is called a learner’s mode. Everyone must be open and accepting that their behavior, however well-intended may need to be adjusted. We all have biases and everyone should freely put them aside. Participants should not be afraid or intimidated to refute, reject and/or correct falsehoods and opinions, etc. as fact.  

We have often been asked must a person of color participate. We have repeatedly stated no! We note, oftentimes it ‘must’ take one of your own to correct, reject and/or educate one of their own.

So congratulations on your pursuit and awakening. There is a whole, big world that is awaiting exploration. Reach out to us if you have questions and/or comments.

                                                             Conver-race-tion™

Arrange a time with your group. It may take several sessions.

Agree that opinions, innuendos, thoughts, celebrity quotes, loud talking and debates are not allowed. Voices and emotions may rise, but mutual respect is required.

Select your topic. Look at current or recent events.

Is your topic for conversation homogeneous (uniform in structure) or diverse? If the topic is diverse already, pick another topic.

For example:  

•  If the crowd that attacked the Capitol on January 6, 2021 was black and brown, would there have been a different response?
• If the NFL had a black commissioner and 32 black/brown owners, 30 black, male head coaches, and 70% white players would America and the military be as supportive and ok?
• If a black man and white man had an encounter with police officers after allegedly giving a $20 counterfeit bill and remained parked outside the store, would there be a different outcome?

Is your conversation proof searchable, researchable and fact based? Can anyone, anywhere locate the ‘same’ information from various, credible, and reliable sources?

Give everyone an opportunity to be enlightened, educated and awakened. 

Develop a time limit (you will be surprised how long 3-5 minutes can be) and stick to it. Take a break if it is needed.

Give time to digest, process and assess.

Then decide as a group are you going to Engage or continue to exercise Silence.

Then repeat!