Page 65 - BigConversationsDismantlingRacism

Please tell us your name and one sentence about something that brings you joy.

Setting the Tone (3:12 – 3:15)

x Share when and what you feel comfortable.

x We hope everyone will participate - If you find yourself talking a lot,
consider holding back. If you tend not to speak in groups, consider
jumping in – the discussion will be more interesting if we have a chance to
hear from everyone.

x Share from your own life experience or perspective.

x Talking together is a good thing – today I hope, above all, that we have a good
conversation. Our goal is not to debate, or to convince, or make any
decisions. We want to try to understand one-another and see how what we talk
about relates to our lives.

Discussion (3:15 – 3:40)

We heard some powerful stories from our invited speakers today (Michael Kent, Kirsti
Uunila, Mike Shisler, Sandy Walker and Dr. Carmen Phelps).

x What comes to mind about their experiences of race and privilege in our
Southern Maryland community?

x Have you personally experienced racism and/or privilege in our Southern
Maryland community? What is your story?

x Do you think things are better than they used to be? Are we moving in the
right direction? What do you see as barriers to progress?

Closing Questions (3:40 – 3:55)

x What didn’t you know about racism and/or privilege in our community?

x The Big Conversation team is committed to continuing on this journey.
Where do we want to go from here? What can we do as community? What can
you/we do as individuals?

Handout: Partial listing of various individuals/groups/activities currently working to

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