Step 1. get someone to 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. In Australia, witnness the harrowing legacies of slavery, blackbirding and the Stolen Generation. Stan Grant suggests racism is at the foundation of The Australian Dream. The ending of Adam Goodes’ career demonstrated how racism is present at the centre of Australian sport. In America, a racially motivated killing started the Black Lives Matter movement.
As much as racism has historical roots, it is maintained through societal structures and 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 white supremacist and their friendship prompted disrobing from the KKK.
The most powerful mechanism for change are enjoyable, informative and inspiring conversations.
Step 2: how does hearing 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.
NOTE: feelings are often described by short, simple words e.g. I feel sad, happy, hungry, annoyed, excited. They are emotions and what we feel deep in our bodies.
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: thoughts are often ways to explain a feeling e.g. I’m feeling sad because my dog died; I’m feeling happy because it’s my birthday; I’m feeling angry because someone cut me off in traffic; I’m feeling hungry because I missed dinner
Step 4: Go around the group again and ask questions of others.
Get each person to ask questions of others… being curious about what others have said. Ask questions that are less about what they said and more about WHY they said it e.g. why do you hold that belief?
Step 5: Open the floor to random free-flowing discussion
And amidst the discussion… get everyone to agree on a summary of the conversation!