Not being a racist is not enough if we want a truly equitable world. Being anti-racist is actively identifying and working against racism. Anti-racism is about getting rid of racism at all levels and making a decision to oppose racism.
When we are not being racist, we choose to use words that are not degrading. Being anti-racist means we are actively learning how our language is impacting others and work on making sure our language is inclusive. When we notice language that is not inclusive, we work to change it and speak up when we hear racist language. Being anti-racist is an active stance.
There are specific actions we can take today to become anti-racist.
- Educate Yourself – Dr. Ibram X Kendi, a leading scholar on anti-racism, states that the heart of racism is denial. Understanding history helps us to understand how racism developed and the ways we can dismantle it. At learntobeantiracist.com you can find recommendations for books, movies, documentaries, podcasts, websites, and more to help you learn more. We cannot expect people who are of other races to educate us.
- Examine Yourself – Take time to examine your own beliefs and actions. We all have biases and attitudes that we may not even consciously recognize, but are still impacting how we act. At Assessment Tools – you can find resources to help you in self-assessment.
- Engage – Engage in conversations around racism and how it is impacting others. When you see racism say something. Break the Silence – Conversations You Can Inititate | Coming Together: Understanding Racism, Working for Justice & Building Connections provides topics for conversation and/or self-reflection.
- Events – Seek opportunities to engage in events that combat racial injustice. In Columbia, MO you can find resources on local efforts to support diversity at Columbia Values Diversity Resources – City of Columbia Missouri. You can also follow organizations that support anti-racism in your community to learn about local events.
- Everyday Spending – I had to stretch to make this one an e-word, but the topic is important. Our money has the power to make change. You can go to buyblack.org to find black owned businesses that you can support.
This can feel overwhelming, but if we all take even one of these actions, we will improve our world for everyone.
What will be your action?
