Getting there... some really useful strategies offered in the Ted Talks... Lots of ideas resonated-- and can transcend race conversations too.
"People in systems count on our silence to keep us where we are" (Ajayi) "Being yourself can be a revolutionary act" (Ajayi) - this is how I feel in my workplace.
"We're all on a spectrum of awareness" (Rietz)- so true- but why is it so difficult for so many to feel comfortable with this? I also love what he said about "a journey of uncomfortable admissions".
There is so much I feel that I can transfer to so many aspects of my life and conversations I engage in. I have also felt that the way I have approached conversations about my children and their adoption and race has been validated- which is a relief. I have always shared our story and listened to others. But I will be more intentional about picking up on some people's framing and othering- sticking to the what was said, not what you are trajectory.. I think the Calling out Racism pointers to keep you on track is a really useful document.
As the majority of my students are Chinese or Indian Singaporean, and many are going to the States for University, I am constantly trying to figure out how to frame the conversation with them. I would love some resources to expand these conversations.
