So You Want to Talk About Race

by Ijeoma Oluo

Are the people in my racial justice conversations and the opinions being considered truly representing the diversity of identities that interact with the subject matter being addressed? Does my scholarship of racial justice reflect the diversity of identities impacted by racial oppression? Who writes the books and articles I’m using to help inform my opinions? Am I listening to people whose identities and experiences differ from mine? Am I looking for what I don’t know? Am I asking people if they notice anything missing from my racial justice efforts? Am I shifting some focus and power away from the most privileged in the conversation? Am I letting those we don’t hear from very often speak first? Am I making conversation accessible to everyone who wants to participate? Am I prioritizing the opinions of those who are often overlooked? Am I providing a safe space for marginalized people to speak out?