FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Why does racism persist?
  Fear of strangers, dislike of "others" different from ourselves, strong concerns for the status quo, conscious and unconscious preference for maintaining the advantages of white privilege - these and other factors can encourage and sustain the practice of racism.
• How does Moving Beyond Racism help eliminate racism?
  Our efforts involve learning to recognize bias, privilege, and the positive nature of individuals different from the self as ways to manage the practices of racism. We read the best and brightest minds on the topic and discuss our experience for shared learning. 
• What do I need to do to join?
  Well, since the Annual Remembrance Ceremony is right around the corner, you could join us there. Later, you could join the Book Group.
• Do you provide diversity workshops?
  Although diversity is certainly part of the healing experience, our focus is on workshops that move us toward the elimination of racism. We explore, in multiple sessions, how racism impacts us personally and professionally and how it becomes embedded into our institutions. 
• Why multiple sessions?
  We have learned that exploring issues of racism across several levels requires building trust for honest dialogue ... more than one day is needed to foster the type of bond that will allow for this type of dialogue. People who have taken the Community Building Program reaffirm, over and over again, the need to take it slowly.
• How many years have you been doing this work?
  Six and counting.