Follow these 5 steps for an enjoyable, informative and inspiring conversation:
Step 1. Read this Beyond Racism conversation catalyst
Racism has plagued humanity for centuries and continues to cast a long shadow over us.
Many modern nations are built on a legacy of racism such as the harrowing legacies of slavery and blackbirding, the Holocaust and the Stolen Generation.
Stan Grant suggests racism is at the foundation of The Australian Dream. A racially motivated killing started the Black Lives Matter movement. The ending of Adam Goodes’ career demonstrated how racism is present at the centre of Australian sport.
As much as racism has historical roots, it is maintained through societal structures, and is manifested by individuals. To address it effectively, we must confront these challenges head-on, and engage in honest dialogue and truth-telling.
Individuals can change oppressive systems. Daryl Davis, a black musician, is an example of what is possible… he befriended a leader of the KKK and got him to disrobe.
At the centre of all change are enjoyable, informative and inspiring conversations.
Step 2: How does that make everyone feel?
Go around each person in turn and get their feelings associated with the Convo Catalyst… with NO interruptions, responses or comments from anyone else.
NOTES:
– get each person to start by saying “I feel… “
– feelings are short words to describe our interaction with an experience e.g. I feel… hot, cold, sad, happy, hungry, annoyed, excited
Step 3: What are everyone’s thoughts?
Go around in turn again and get each person to share their thoughts associated with the Convo Catalyst… again with NO interruptions, responses or comments from anyone else.
NOTES:
– get each person to start with “My thoughts are… “
– thoughts are a description of an experience e.g. the temperature is 42deg; there is a blizzard blowing; it’s my birthday party; I haven’t eaten for a day; I’m stuck in traffic; I’m going on holiday
Step 4: Go around again and give each person a set amount of time e.g. 2 mins to ask questions about what others have said.
Be curious about where people are at. Particularly if they have different opinions.