White Exceptionalism:
What are your thoughts about white exceptionalism, guilt, and shame? Have you felt that way? Have you been driven by toxic white guilt?
I do feel exceptional and therefore struggle with white exceptionalism. I do think I do more than the average American, even though I'm not doing enough. As I dive into history, I do feel collective guilt/shame over the actions of white people. I can get frustrated at other white people who haven't started or have just started this journey. I try to not lash out at people and encourage their baby steps.
Allyship:
Where do you think you are on the ally continuum? Do you think you already demonstrate allyship?
I think I am on the verge of active. I'm working towards educating myself and becoming more aware, but I know I need to do more to have these hard conversations and I need to seek out my diversity.
Conversations:
Are you starting to feel more prepared and confident to engage in conversations about race? What do you think about some of the PDF handouts? What thoughts did you have while watching the videos focusing on how to engage others?
I am starting to feel more prepared. I can't control what other people say, but I can control my response to them. The handouts will be helpful for me. It takes bravery to choose to engage with people on hard conversations.