Page 49 - BigConversationsDismantlingRacism
P. 49
ATTACHMENT 1: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF BIG CONVERSATION VI
Findings from the Big Conversation VI:
A Communitywide Civil Conversation
on Dismantling Racism
An Executive Summary
The annual Big Conversation series is sponsored by Middleham and St. Peter’s Parish in
Lusby and provides an opportunity for communitywide civil conversation on topics of
concern. This year’s sixth Big Conversation was on dismantling racism. It was offered in
three parts:
A book study on six Sundays in October and November discussing “Living into
God’s Dream: Dismantling Racism in America” by Catherine Meeks, with over 60
participating.
th
On December 3, 100 people met to view and discuss the movie “13 ”. The film
explored race, justice, mass incarceration, and the new “Jim Crow”.
On January 14, over 200 people met to focus on dismantling racism in our own
community - hearing from community leaders, sharing our stories in small groups,
identifying ways we can move forward and learning about what is happening now to
build bridges.
The following is a summary of what was heard and learned in each of those parts:
Book Study:
Sharing our stories and listening to others – The six sessions of the book study provided the
attendees with the opportunity to share their stories regarding racism and to intentionally
listen to others. Many affirmed that they learned a great deal and truly expressed that “they
didn’t know” about aspects of racism.
Developing trust – Through the study, and especially in the later sessions, attendees – Black
and White – developed a level of trust, allowing for authentic engagement around issues of
race.
Working together – With Catherine Meeks’ guidance, attendees grew to understand the
importance of working together – Black and White – on projects of mutual interest and
concern.
40
