Racial Justice Dialogues

The death of George Floyd in May 2020 galvanized people worldwide to protest racism and discrimination and prompted global discussions on racial justice. Two Friends, Nim and Jonathan decided to engage in truth seeking dialogue for eighteen months as a process of continuing revelation on racial justice informed by multiple perspectives: the book is the result of this dialogue.

The course is largely based on the book. It is an exploration of how racism in its varied forms is still present in our society; personal, interpersonal, structural, societal, cultural etc. and how we can work towards bringing healing and wholeness to every part of our personal and social life. Attendees are encouraged to purchase and read the book ahead of the course, as an example of such a dialogue, although the form and content of their own dialogues will of course, potentially, be quite different.

Who is it for? The course is for anyone interested in engaging in authentic facilitated dialogues to identify common issues, themes, and interests relating to racial justice. It is for those keen to promote social cohesion and peaceful coexistence within a just, diverse, non-discriminatory society.

Format – We will develop informal dialogues to personalise the worksheets contained in the book in various interactive ways: reflection exercises, pairing and sharing, small group discussions and case studies.

Expected Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this course, attendees will have learned how to:

• Shape peaceful narratives about racial justice in our Meetings and communities;
• Create enabling learning environments for racial justice dialogue;
• Be able to recognise the differences in power and privilege between different people;
• Recognise the importance of being a role model and an agent of change;
• Take our thoughts and discussions forward to promote racial justice in our personal and professional lives;

Attendees will gain confidence to offer their thoughts, and also to fully hear and consider other peoples’ thoughts, on this often challenging and contentious topic.

There will be some material to look at before the first session. We will email you around one week prior to the course with information about accessing the course, including this material, on our online learning platform (Moodle).