Last Updated on December 26, 2023
Multiracial Awareness Discussion Group
Lois Schmidt, Leader
Joan Green, Co-Leader
We offer opportunities for learning and discussion about race for those concerned with racial justice and harmony.
Meeting Frequency & Location
Have you felt like the race problems in our would are too big but you are still concerned and want to make a difference? Have you wondered about questions like, “How can I talk comfortably with someone who is different from me? Why is it important to talk about race? What brought us to this place and time with regard to racial issues? What would a racially just and equitable society look and feel like? Will we ever get there?”
We invite you to join in the discussion. The group will start by looking at some of the historical events and doctrines, perpetuated by community institutions and the government that have affected race and racial perceptions.
| SCHEDULE | TIME | LOCATION |
| 2nd or 3rd Friday of the Month | 10:00 am – noon | To be announced |
Multiracial Awareness Discussion Group Goals and Objective
Our Goal: A shared focus on the importance of continuing our discussion of structural racism and our common interest in developing racial justice.
To accomplish this goal, we will:
- Continue our comparative analysis of American history and today’s responses to racial prejudice;
- Gain an understanding of how traditional views (for example, of “melting pot” theories and “colorblindness” policies) have ignored and denied racism in the United States;
- Expand our discussion of social issues and institutions that maintain racism;
- Alter prejudicial patterns of thought and behavior; and
- Seek ways to build racial equity and inclusion to help create a new and more hopeful legacy for now and for future generations.
More Effective Conversations About Racism: Part 3
Multiracial Awareness Discussion Group
Thursday, February 9, 2023
7 – 9 PM
Gallery in Charlestown Square
Bill Cozzo, Presenter
We have studied the history of our country as it relates to racism today to facilitate moving toward a more just and equitable society. Now we continue the study we started last Spring with Bill Cozzo of the difficult task of talking with family and friends about racism and how it affects all of us.
This is a four session program: Oct 20, Dec 8, Feb 9, Apr 13 in the Gallery in CTS. Attendance at all sessions recommenced but not required.
Designed to help folks have more productive conversations about racial justice topics and empowers white allies to “call people in” to the work of advancing anti-racism.
Teaches the R.A.C.E. Method of conversation ( Dr. David Campt) which has been used successfully by individuals and groups to establish a relationship which facilitates open dialog.
Presented by Bill Cozzo, a community organizer and volunteer leader with the Baltimore chapter of “Showing Up for Racial Justice”(SURJ.)
More Effective Conversations About Racism / Session 3 Pre-Work:
When you think back on what we talked about in our December session about “Asking” …
● What comes to mind regarding how to start up the conversations when these situations come up?
● What comes to mind regarding what to do after you ask the question?Imagine that someone you know says that they “Don’t see color and treat everyone the same” and then tell you a story
● What might you say to “connect” to them?
Everyone who is concerned about racial justice and equity is invited to attend. For more information or to be added to our email list contact Lois Schmidt or Joan Green. Contact information can be found in the Resident Directory, available on MyErickson.