Page 25 - BigConversationsDismantlingRacism

White Privilege Workshop: As the Big Conversation steering committee studied
dismantling racism it consistently heard the refrain, “White people need to talk to one-
another about race and privilege”. We needed to offer a safe place where people could come
with open hearts and open minds, to listen, to share, and commit to new insights. Both
leaders and participants were on the same learning journey. There were no experts…we
were all learning from each other.

The White Privilege workshop took place on Sunday afternoons from 2:30- 4:30 starting
October 15 – November 11 in the Great Hall at Middleham & St. Peter’s Parish. The
workshop was limited to 30 participants. A diverse group gathered to explore the meaning
of White privilege and its origins. We deepened our awareness of how privilege is made
manifest in ourselves and in systems of power. We explored the consequences. We also
considered why White people are so fragile when talking about race. We explored how we
can become allies in the work of unmasking and dismantling racism. Members of our
steering committee facilitated the workshops.

Here are a few of the comments on the exit survey, when asked, “What was your strongest
take-away?”

x The reality of the Black experience. Being able to honestly hear perspectives
from our new Black friends.
x We are in this together-this is a process. I am grateful for this time we shared
and the work that will continue to come out of it.

x There is hope. This has been the best conversation I have ever had the privilege
of experiencing. We still have a lot of work to do, but we have made a start and
we are motivated to continue.

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