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The Little Book of Racial Healing: Coming to the Table for Truth-Telling, Liberation, and Transformation
This book introduces Coming to the Table’s approach to a continuously evolving set of purposeful theories, ideas, experiments, guidelines, and intentions, all dedicated to facilitating racial healing and transformation.
People of color, relative to white people, fall on the negative side of virtually all measurable social indicators. The “living wound” is seen in the significant disparities in average household wealth, unemployment and poverty rates, infant mortality rates, access to healthcare and life expectancy, education, housing, and treatment within, and by, the criminal justice system.
Coming to the Table (CTTT) was born in 2006 when two dozen descendants from both sides of the system of enslavement gathered together at Eastern Mennonite University (EMU), in collaboration with the Center for Justice & Peacebuilding (CJP). Stories were shared and friendships began. The participants began to envision a more connected and truthful world that would address the unresolved and persistent effects of the historic institution of slavery. This Little Book shares Coming to the Table’s vision for the United States—a vision of a just and truthful society that acknowledges and seeks to heal from the racial wounds of the past. Readers will learn practical skills for better listening; discover tips for building authentic, accountable relationships; and will find specific and varied ideas for taking action. The table of contents
And subject include Unresolved Trauma, Brown v. Board of Education, Lynching, Connecting with Your Own Story, Wht Healing Looks Like, Engage Your Community, and much more.
People of color, relative to white people, fall on the negative side of virtually all measurable social indicators. The “living wound” is seen in the significant disparities in average household wealth, unemployment and poverty rates, infant mortality rates, access to healthcare and life expectancy, education, housing, and treatment within, and by, the criminal justice system.
Coming to the Table (CTTT) was born in 2006 when two dozen descendants from both sides of the system of enslavement gathered together at Eastern Mennonite University (EMU), in collaboration with the Center for Justice & Peacebuilding (CJP). Stories were shared and friendships began. The participants began to envision a more connected and truthful world that would address the unresolved and persistent effects of the historic institution of slavery. This Little Book shares Coming to the Table’s vision for the United States—a vision of a just and truthful society that acknowledges and seeks to heal from the racial wounds of the past. Readers will learn practical skills for better listening; discover tips for building authentic, accountable relationships; and will find specific and varied ideas for taking action. The table of contents
And subject include Unresolved Trauma, Brown v. Board of Education, Lynching, Connecting with Your Own Story, Wht Healing Looks Like, Engage Your Community, and much more.
120 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2019
60 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
About the author
Thomas Norman DeWolf
5 books59 followersThomas Norman DeWolf is an author, public speaker and trainer, and serves as Program Co-Manager of Coming to the Table. He is a certified trainer for Infinite Possibilities: The Art of Changing Your Life
Tom's most recent book, The Little Book of Racial Healing , co-authored with Jodie Geddes, was published by Skyhorse in January 2019. Ruth King calls it a "...rare jewel of practical wisdom shows us how to embody racial healing in truth and kinship. It reads with such ease and affinity that you will want to treasure it and share it with everyone you know."
Tom is co-author, with Sharon Leslie Morgan of Gather at the Table , published by Beacon Press in October 2012. Leymah Gbowee, 2011 Nobel Peace Laureate calls it, "an honest exploration into the deep social wounds left by racism, violence, and injustice."
Tom's first book is Inheriting the Trade (Beacon Press, 2008). Harry Smith, anchor of The Early Show on CBS said, "I cannot recommend it highly enough. The book is terrific."
To schedule Tom for a speaking engagement at your university, college, conference or other event, please click here
Tom's most recent book, The Little Book of Racial Healing , co-authored with Jodie Geddes, was published by Skyhorse in January 2019. Ruth King calls it a "...rare jewel of practical wisdom shows us how to embody racial healing in truth and kinship. It reads with such ease and affinity that you will want to treasure it and share it with everyone you know."
Tom is co-author, with Sharon Leslie Morgan of Gather at the Table , published by Beacon Press in October 2012. Leymah Gbowee, 2011 Nobel Peace Laureate calls it, "an honest exploration into the deep social wounds left by racism, violence, and injustice."
Tom's first book is Inheriting the Trade (Beacon Press, 2008). Harry Smith, anchor of The Early Show on CBS said, "I cannot recommend it highly enough. The book is terrific."
To schedule Tom for a speaking engagement at your university, college, conference or other event, please click here
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April 6, 2025Book Review: The Little Book of Racial Healing: Coming to the Table for Truth-Telling, Liberation, and Transformation
Authors: Thomas Norman DeWolf and Jodie Geddes
Publisher: Good Books
Publication Date: 2020
ISBN: 978-1680995075
Introduction
The Little Book of Racial Healing: Coming to the Table for Truth-Telling, Liberation, and Transformation by Thomas Norman DeWolf and Jodie Geddes presents a profound exploration of racial healing in the context of American society. This compact yet impactful book offers a roadmap for individuals and communities seeking to confront and dismantle the legacies of racism through truth-telling and restorative practices. The authors draw upon their experiences and insights to provide practical tools and frameworks that encourage dialogue, understanding, and ultimately, transformation.
Content Overview
The book is structured around several key themes and practical approaches:
Historical Context of Racial Trauma: DeWolf and Geddes begin with an examination of the historical roots of racial trauma in America. They provide insights into how past injustices continue to affect both individuals and communities, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging this legacy as a prerequisite for healing.
The Process of Truth-Telling: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the concept of truth-telling as a crucial element of the healing process. The authors argue that honest conversations about race, privilege, and systemic oppression are necessary for individuals to understand their own roles in perpetuating or dismantling these systems.
Creating Safe Spaces for Dialogue: DeWolf and Geddes emphasize the importance of creating safe and inclusive environments where individuals can engage in difficult conversations. They offer practical guidance on facilitating discussions that allow for vulnerability and openness, which are essential for genuine connection and understanding.
Restorative Practices and Liberation: The authors explore how restorative practices can be utilized to promote healing and justice. They provide examples of community-led initiatives that have successfully fostered reconciliation and empowerment, illustrating the potential for collective healing through shared experiences.
Call to Action: In the concluding sections, the book serves as a call to action, urging readers to engage in ongoing conversations about race and to actively participate in efforts aimed at promoting racial justice and healing in their communities.
Thematic Analysis
A central theme of The Little Book of Racial Healing is the importance of acknowledging and addressing historical injustice. DeWolf and Geddes assert that true healing cannot occur without a comprehensive understanding of the historical contexts that have shaped racial dynamics in the United States. This focus encourages readers to reflect critically on their own experiences and the structures of power that influence their lives.
Another key theme is the power of community and collective action. The authors advocate for shared responsibility and collaboration in the pursuit of racial healing, underscoring that individual efforts alone are insufficient. This collective approach is rooted in the belief that transformation is possible when people come together to confront difficult truths and work towards justice.
Strengths
One of the strengths of this book is its accessible writing style. DeWolf and Geddes effectively communicate complex ideas in a manner that is engaging and easy to understand, making the content accessible to a broad audience, including those new to the discourse on racial healing.
The book’s practical focus is another notable aspect. The authors provide concrete steps and methods for facilitating discussions about race and healing, which enhances its usefulness as a guide for individuals and community leaders. This practical orientation empowers readers to take actionable steps towards fostering meaningful dialogues and transformative change.
Critique
While The Little Book of Racial Healing is a significant contribution to the conversation on racial justice, it could benefit from a more in-depth exploration of the challenges and resistance encountered in the healing process. Discussing potential obstacles could provide a more balanced view and better prepare readers for the complexities involved in engaging with such sensitive topics.
Additionally, incorporating a wider array of perspectives from different racial and ethnic communities would enrich the narrative, allowing for an even more comprehensive understanding of racial healing in a diverse society.
Conclusion
The Little Book of Racial Healing: Coming to the Table for Truth-Telling, Liberation, and Transformation is an insightful and practical resource that addresses the pressing need for racial healing in contemporary America. Through engaging narratives and actionable insights, Thomas Norman DeWolf and Jodie Geddes provide a valuable framework for individuals and communities to navigate the complexities of race and work toward healing and liberation. This book is highly recommended for educators, community leaders, and anyone committed to fostering racial equity and understanding in their personal and collective journeys.
Authors: Thomas Norman DeWolf and Jodie Geddes
Publisher: Good Books
Publication Date: 2020
ISBN: 978-1680995075
Introduction
The Little Book of Racial Healing: Coming to the Table for Truth-Telling, Liberation, and Transformation by Thomas Norman DeWolf and Jodie Geddes presents a profound exploration of racial healing in the context of American society. This compact yet impactful book offers a roadmap for individuals and communities seeking to confront and dismantle the legacies of racism through truth-telling and restorative practices. The authors draw upon their experiences and insights to provide practical tools and frameworks that encourage dialogue, understanding, and ultimately, transformation.
Content Overview
The book is structured around several key themes and practical approaches:
Historical Context of Racial Trauma: DeWolf and Geddes begin with an examination of the historical roots of racial trauma in America. They provide insights into how past injustices continue to affect both individuals and communities, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging this legacy as a prerequisite for healing.
The Process of Truth-Telling: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the concept of truth-telling as a crucial element of the healing process. The authors argue that honest conversations about race, privilege, and systemic oppression are necessary for individuals to understand their own roles in perpetuating or dismantling these systems.
Creating Safe Spaces for Dialogue: DeWolf and Geddes emphasize the importance of creating safe and inclusive environments where individuals can engage in difficult conversations. They offer practical guidance on facilitating discussions that allow for vulnerability and openness, which are essential for genuine connection and understanding.
Restorative Practices and Liberation: The authors explore how restorative practices can be utilized to promote healing and justice. They provide examples of community-led initiatives that have successfully fostered reconciliation and empowerment, illustrating the potential for collective healing through shared experiences.
Call to Action: In the concluding sections, the book serves as a call to action, urging readers to engage in ongoing conversations about race and to actively participate in efforts aimed at promoting racial justice and healing in their communities.
Thematic Analysis
A central theme of The Little Book of Racial Healing is the importance of acknowledging and addressing historical injustice. DeWolf and Geddes assert that true healing cannot occur without a comprehensive understanding of the historical contexts that have shaped racial dynamics in the United States. This focus encourages readers to reflect critically on their own experiences and the structures of power that influence their lives.
Another key theme is the power of community and collective action. The authors advocate for shared responsibility and collaboration in the pursuit of racial healing, underscoring that individual efforts alone are insufficient. This collective approach is rooted in the belief that transformation is possible when people come together to confront difficult truths and work towards justice.
Strengths
One of the strengths of this book is its accessible writing style. DeWolf and Geddes effectively communicate complex ideas in a manner that is engaging and easy to understand, making the content accessible to a broad audience, including those new to the discourse on racial healing.
The book’s practical focus is another notable aspect. The authors provide concrete steps and methods for facilitating discussions about race and healing, which enhances its usefulness as a guide for individuals and community leaders. This practical orientation empowers readers to take actionable steps towards fostering meaningful dialogues and transformative change.
Critique
While The Little Book of Racial Healing is a significant contribution to the conversation on racial justice, it could benefit from a more in-depth exploration of the challenges and resistance encountered in the healing process. Discussing potential obstacles could provide a more balanced view and better prepare readers for the complexities involved in engaging with such sensitive topics.
Additionally, incorporating a wider array of perspectives from different racial and ethnic communities would enrich the narrative, allowing for an even more comprehensive understanding of racial healing in a diverse society.
Conclusion
The Little Book of Racial Healing: Coming to the Table for Truth-Telling, Liberation, and Transformation is an insightful and practical resource that addresses the pressing need for racial healing in contemporary America. Through engaging narratives and actionable insights, Thomas Norman DeWolf and Jodie Geddes provide a valuable framework for individuals and communities to navigate the complexities of race and work toward healing and liberation. This book is highly recommended for educators, community leaders, and anyone committed to fostering racial equity and understanding in their personal and collective journeys.
April 2, 2020
The Little Book of Racial Healing gives an overview of a process for racial healing practiced by the organization, Coming to the Table (CTTT). I found this organization on the Equal Justice Initiative website and was interested in what they do. They essentially gather people together from different races to talk uncover their histories, listen and share with one another, gain empathy, and take action toward restorative justice.
There is a lot I was encouraged to think about in this book. I admire their process and the way they think about it. While people could look at this and say it's accomplishing nothing, I think that talking together can accomplish a lot. While this book isn't written from a Christian perspective, helpful tools that are Christian practices are emphasized (listening, empathy, seeking forgiveness, seeking justice). The book points to countless helpful resources and has a number of big ideas worth considering. Here are two:
-Asking the question: What would racial healing look like?
This will likely reveal a lot about whoever has to wrestle with this question. If someone thinks we already have racial healing, it reveals a lot about their perspective. It reveals a need to see the world from the collective perspective of African American's and to take a much deeper look at our country's sad history. The question also requires some specificity that's needed. Because of America's racial sins (the sins of my white ancestors that I personally benefited from), racial healing is required in countless areas. Answering this question requires an individual to dream about a different and better future and hopefully inspire meaningful action.
-White people know the least about whiteness and its impact
The white man who contributed to this book wrote that. Having spent 30+ years mostly ignorant of the privilege I experience as a white man, I can't help but agree with him. I don't know all my history but I know my grandparents were able to buy a house because of the GI Bill. I learned in this book that this bill which was intended for ALL veterans was systematically denied to the majority of African Americans. In 1947 there were 3000 VA guaranteed loans distributed in Mississippi, exactly two went to black veterans. The numbers in other states weren't much better. So my white ancestors had access to a wealth building asset that black people in that time period did not. This is just one example. There is a lot of learning to do for white people like myself. There is a lot of listening we need to do. And there is repentance that we need to do. God help us.
If you do read this book and you are a Christian, you'll find some perspectives you don't agree with (I hope). I can't agree with the idea of finding your own truth. I find it odd that a book which appeals so often to restoring human dignity would also espouse the idea that we all need to look within ourselves to find truth. I believe God is the one who made all humans equal and human dignity is inherent because God made all humans equal. This is my starting point for racial justice as it was for Dr. King and so many other Christian civil rights leaders. I think that's a necessary foundation for experiencing true racial healing.
Also I have to point out my favorite part of this book is the "Laugh Circle" to end meetings where to ease the tension all participants "laugh as a collective." "The laugh increases in tone and then decreases to silence. Encourage participants to move around the room, shake, jump, even roll on the floor." This should be how all staff meetings of every organization end. Period.
There is a lot I was encouraged to think about in this book. I admire their process and the way they think about it. While people could look at this and say it's accomplishing nothing, I think that talking together can accomplish a lot. While this book isn't written from a Christian perspective, helpful tools that are Christian practices are emphasized (listening, empathy, seeking forgiveness, seeking justice). The book points to countless helpful resources and has a number of big ideas worth considering. Here are two:
-Asking the question: What would racial healing look like?
This will likely reveal a lot about whoever has to wrestle with this question. If someone thinks we already have racial healing, it reveals a lot about their perspective. It reveals a need to see the world from the collective perspective of African American's and to take a much deeper look at our country's sad history. The question also requires some specificity that's needed. Because of America's racial sins (the sins of my white ancestors that I personally benefited from), racial healing is required in countless areas. Answering this question requires an individual to dream about a different and better future and hopefully inspire meaningful action.
-White people know the least about whiteness and its impact
The white man who contributed to this book wrote that. Having spent 30+ years mostly ignorant of the privilege I experience as a white man, I can't help but agree with him. I don't know all my history but I know my grandparents were able to buy a house because of the GI Bill. I learned in this book that this bill which was intended for ALL veterans was systematically denied to the majority of African Americans. In 1947 there were 3000 VA guaranteed loans distributed in Mississippi, exactly two went to black veterans. The numbers in other states weren't much better. So my white ancestors had access to a wealth building asset that black people in that time period did not. This is just one example. There is a lot of learning to do for white people like myself. There is a lot of listening we need to do. And there is repentance that we need to do. God help us.
If you do read this book and you are a Christian, you'll find some perspectives you don't agree with (I hope). I can't agree with the idea of finding your own truth. I find it odd that a book which appeals so often to restoring human dignity would also espouse the idea that we all need to look within ourselves to find truth. I believe God is the one who made all humans equal and human dignity is inherent because God made all humans equal. This is my starting point for racial justice as it was for Dr. King and so many other Christian civil rights leaders. I think that's a necessary foundation for experiencing true racial healing.
Also I have to point out my favorite part of this book is the "Laugh Circle" to end meetings where to ease the tension all participants "laugh as a collective." "The laugh increases in tone and then decreases to silence. Encourage participants to move around the room, shake, jump, even roll on the floor." This should be how all staff meetings of every organization end. Period.
March 2, 2020
The Little Book of Racial Healing: Coming to the Table for Truth-Telling, Liberation, and Transformation introduces us to Coming to the Table, a nonprofit that provides resources for all who wish to acknowledge and heal the wounds of racism. The name was inspired by Dr. King's, dream “that the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave masters will join together at the table of brotherhood." Coming to the Table invites us to see the truth about all of our history, the parts we're proud of and the parts we're ashamed of. I love the metaphor of coming to the table –– gathering ingredients and finding new recipes – tasting them – getting dirty and uncomfortable by eating together with our hands. There’s something very raw and communal and intimate about it. I believe we’re all hungry to be connected in this way.
January 13, 2021
This Little Book is a practical guide for racial healing. Many of the suggestions in the text enable readers to approach racial healing on the intrapersonal and interpersonal levels, both within themselves and within their communities. It provides ways to overcome some of the largest cleavages formed by racism in the US. It reminds the reader, and white people in particular, that dismantling systemic racism is difficult work that needs to be amplified by those who benefit the most from racist systems (white people). Toolkits and suggestions are shared so that people may join this work from wherever they are in the struggle to combat racism. As the authors note, "Racial healing is heart and soul work; your heart and soul work. The only person you can truly change is yourself. So know yourself and be committed to learning, without harming" (99).
December 15, 2018
I'm quite proud of this one, part of the wonderful Little Books of Justice & Peacebuilding series, co-written with Jodie Geddes, an amazing young woman who serves as President of the Board of managers of Coming to the Table (where I've served as Executive Director since early 2013). I hope you enjoy it as well, and that it serves up a healthy Table full of healing, truth-telling, liberation, and transformation.
February 5, 2021
Unlike some of the other books that I have read, this is a practical guide to racial healing and coming together. Very well written and easy to understand and apply. Plus, there is a list at the end of the book of other references. I recommend this book highly if one is interested in understanding and working with people on racial division.
June 16, 2019
A helpful and thoughtfully succinct primer on racial healing. It’s definitely inspired me to read more deeply, which is, I think, at least partially the point. I wish there were a DC-based Coming to the Table community!
May 30, 2019
I wish every American would read this book.
July 29, 2021
Easy to read and practical. No jargon!
It's probably ok to find out the information directly from the Coming To The Table website, though.
It's probably ok to find out the information directly from the Coming To The Table website, though.
August 27, 2022
Wonderful read. I will recommend this for anyone trying to understand measures that we can take to heal from racial injustice
July 31, 2021
gem of a book
Wonderful book that outlines the process of getting past our past in a way that gives us hope for the future.
Wonderful book that outlines the process of getting past our past in a way that gives us hope for the future.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews