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Dismantling Racism Resource Book

Are you intentionally building alliances with other organizations
and communities of color?

To what extent does the organization’s analysis of racism affirm the shared experiences
of various groups of color both within the organization and in relationship to other
communities?
One of the ways racism operates in the U.S. is that it divides to conquer, driving wedges
between various ethnic groups and communities of color. It is critical for organizations to
proactively build alliances among people of color. We cannot ignore real differences and
tensions, but should consciously and constructively try to mend problems and create
collaboration. If people of color are divided, our work for racial justice is jeopardized.

Does your organization have a strategic approach to weighing the
costs and benefits of entering coalitions, particularly with white
organizations?

Organizations of color, need to be careful about coalition work with white organizations.
Although such coalitions are often necessary – especially given the demographic realities
of the West –there are many potential pitfalls. White organizations are often larger and
better resourced, creating significant power imbalances. Few white organizations “get”
racism at a deep level and have a track record of fighting racism in appropriate ways. How
can organizations of color collaborate while maintaining an appropriate level of leadership,
keeping their focus and avoiding getting usurped? What type of internal strength do you
need to build before entering new collaborations? How can you assess the capacity of
predominantly white organizations to be effective anti-racist allies to your organization?

How is your organization prepared to deal with racist attacks?

If your work is effective, you will most likely be targeted at some point, if not also
constantly, in a million smaller ways. Many established organizations develop “risk
management” plans to deal with all kinds of potential crises. People of color organizations
should consider adding to these usual disaster possibilities (fire, embezzlement, financial
crisis, etc.) some of the liabilities that come with building power for people of color in a
deeply racist society: media misinformation and mischaracterization, harassing lawsuits
(SLAPP suits), challenges to your nonprofit status, infiltration by government agents, etc.

Dismantling Racism Project 92 Western States Center