Racism

[close] For too long, White people have ignored and perpetuated racism in the U.S. It is a systemic disease, and we can no longer be silent and pretend that it is not our problem. In order to fight for justice, we need to educate ourselves on the issues and how best to tackle them. We need to call out our White brothers and sisters when they commit microaggressions or casual racism. In order to do that, we need to be able to recognize it when it happens. This is our work. The aim of this book club is to bring individuals together to educate ourselves. We know that reading alone can be daunting, and can always be put off to another day. Together we can hold each other accountable. This is a matter of urgency, as we have seen over and over, every day that racism is allowed to fester costs lives. And Black Lives Matter. This group is open to all, regardless of race or location. But we will primarily be reading books about racism in America.

[close] In this Book Group, we will focus on gaining the knowledge and vocabulary to challenge negative stereotypes about Blacks. For example: • Blacks always live in rundown slums and ghettos • Blacks are taking all the good jobs from Whites • I am not a racist, I see everyone as equal Maybe you have heard these comments and wished you had the information or language to offer a counter perspective. Or, maybe you have these beliefs and want to explore alternative viewpoints. If so, this Book Group is for you. I started it because I had these experiences and have struggled to develop coherent contrasting-stories about Blacks. I adopted the term stories after watching a TED Talk titled: The Danger of a Single Story by author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. As stated earlier, in this Book Group, we will focus on gaining the knowledge and vocabulary to challenge negative stereotypes about Blacks. We will do that by reading books about race and racism. The goal is to amass a variety of alternative messages members might use in personal or professional situations. The discussion format will be very specific. After reading the monthly book, members will post threads that describe a negative stereotype or belief about Blacks; then share insights from the book that might be used as a counterpoint to that stereotype or belief. This Group is about members sharing what they learned and how it might be used to combat negativity about Blacks. It will be a safe space for posting these messages; without fear of challenges to chosen stereotypes, beliefs, or counterpoints. We will be a group of member learners. This Group is not about debating book merits, conclusions, or topics. If you want to debate the content about books on race or racism, this Group IS NOT for you. I know you will help me become more knowledgeable and articulate about the Black experience. Barbara Moderator

[close] A place to discuss all the unique aspects of Deaf culture as highlighted in the thriller Silent Fear (A novel inspired by true crimes) by Lance & James Morcan. This group can also be an intersection of sorts where Deaf and hearing people can engage and learn from each other.

[close] Group for people wanting to learn more about racism, their own blind spots and how to become better allies. Add books to the list you'd like to read in the future. We are a group of friends, open to sharing our list of books, but not looking to accept new members at this time.