Race

[close] A group of willing souls coming together to educate ourselves about race, racism and the lived experience of non-white communities

[close] We read books with big ideas. We talk about them. We learn things. We grow together. What's a *Big Idea*? Something larger than current events and trends that gives us a fresh perspective or understanding on our world. Our reads are not overly partisan. However, we recognize everyone has a point of view, and allow some bias. We identify and engage bias rather than pretend that objectivity exists. Our reads are designed for a broad audience. You don't have to be an economist or physicist to follow.

[close] This is a group of women who are looking to more deeply understand race in America and learn how to become antiracist.

[close] In this Book Group, we will focus on gaining the knowledge and vocabulary to challenge negative stereotypes about Blacks. For example: • Blacks always live in rundown slums and ghettos • Blacks are taking all the good jobs from Whites • I am not a racist, I see everyone as equal Maybe you have heard these comments and wished you had the information or language to offer a counter perspective. Or, maybe you have these beliefs and want to explore alternative viewpoints. If so, this Book Group is for you. I started it because I had these experiences and have struggled to develop coherent contrasting-stories about Blacks. I adopted the term stories after watching a TED Talk titled: The Danger of a Single Story by author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. As stated earlier, in this Book Group, we will focus on gaining the knowledge and vocabulary to challenge negative stereotypes about Blacks. We will do that by reading books about race and racism. The goal is to amass a variety of alternative messages members might use in personal or professional situations. The discussion format will be very specific. After reading the monthly book, members will post threads that describe a negative stereotype or belief about Blacks; then share insights from the book that might be used as a counterpoint to that stereotype or belief. This Group is about members sharing what they learned and how it might be used to combat negativity about Blacks. It will be a safe space for posting these messages; without fear of challenges to chosen stereotypes, beliefs, or counterpoints. We will be a group of member learners. This Group is not about debating book merits, conclusions, or topics. If you want to debate the content about books on race or racism, this Group IS NOT for you. I know you will help me become more knowledgeable and articulate about the Black experience. Barbara Moderator