AFF 74: Let’s Talk About Racism

Description

In this week’s episode, I’m talking about racism. It is messy as fuck.

My words are not perfect and I recognize that. Everything discussed is based on academic/ work/social justice experience, not lived experience. Please listen to/watch/read resources by anti-racist educators, people of color, and black people, to learn more about this topic from the voices of people who are directly affected by racism. I’m so grateful for these resources and would not have the understanding and compassion I have for people different from me without them. I’ve linked many of these resources in the show notes.

I talk about people’s discomfort with the concept of white privilege. Discomfort is rooted in a misunderstanding of what privilege is! This also connects to a discussion I have on the misconception that racism ended with slavery in the US.

Something else I talk about is “white women’s tears,” aka white women having an emotional (not a productive) reaction to racism. There are ways to feel your emotions while productively contributing to the uplifting of black people and people of color.

Racism exists in so many of us and we don’t even know it. It’s hidden deep in our shadows, which is why shadow work is so important in addressing our own racism.

Another topic I talk about is structural racism. Learn. Learn. Learn. Learn about the history of this country and how racism is ingrained in many if not all of our institutions and systems. Take initiative to build your own awareness.

I also discuss self love, white guilt, our own racist feelings, and limiting beliefs!

Thank you to everybody who submitted questions for the Q&A portion of the podcast. Questions are centered around how to show up, how to encourage other white people to build their awareness, and actionable things to help. Spoiler alert, just like everything life, there is no perfect/right answer.

Do you consistently put everyone’s needs before your own? If so, join me for this free workshop on setting healthy boundaries. Start saying “NO” here.

Shownotes:

Please note: the Art of Speaking Up podcast episode mentioned will not be out until next week. Follow me on Instagram @airyfairyfeminist to know when it is available.