grow

In this stage, you may notice yourself feeling defensive when talking about race. How do folks move past this stage? By combating these feelings of defensiveness, shame or superiority.

To Do:

Examine the diagram below. Reflect on the ways you have engaged (inadvertently or explicitly) in socially acceptable forms of racism. How have your past and current thoughts or beliefs impacted those around you? What are the implications of these convictions?¹

To Watch:

To Read:

The Uses of Anger: Women Responding to Racism by Audre Lorde

When Feminism is White Supremecy in Heels by Rachel Cargle

Me and White Supremecyby Layla Saad

To Listen:

"Well Meaning White People", an episode of Smartest Person in the Room podcast

"Side Effects of White Women", an episode of Small Doses with Amanda Seales podcast

What to Do Next:

Remember that moving forward is important. It might be helpful to revisit some of the previous resources to help remind you of why this work is important. Continue to find a way to participate. Some examples might include attending a training, joining an allies group, participating in a protest. Keep working to grow, instead of settling into shame.

1. Image source: Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence (2005). Adapted: Ellen Tuzzolo (2016); Mary Julia Cooksey Cordero (@jewelspewels) (2019); The Conscious Kid (2020)