Responding to racism
At some point in our lives, we have been caught in a conversation about race or overheard someone making racist comments. In those moments we may not have reacted, maybe out of fear of confrontation or to avoid tension at a family function. But think about this. What someone does or says in each moment determines who and what they are in those moments. If you want to create change but may not be sure what to say in those instances, consider respectfully interrupting the racist speech by seeking clarity on those comments and possibly offering someone a new perspective.
- Seek clarity: “Tell me more about __.”
- Offer an alternative perspective: “Have you ever considered __.”
- Speak your truth: “I don’t see it the way you do. I see it as __.”
- Find common ground: “We don’t agree on __ but we can agree on __.”
- Give yourself the time and space you need: “Could we revisit the conversation about __ tomorrow.”
- Set boundaries: “Please do not say __ again to me or around me.”
(The suggested statements above come from Karen Catlin’s Better Allies Newsletter.)
To gain a deeper understanding about racism and antiracism, visit the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture’s “Being Antiracist” resource for a comprehensive exploration on the topic.
