On Tuesday at the Waterbury Public Library, 6:30-7:30, we will be discussing Chapter 3 of Ijeoma Oluo's book _So you want to talk about race?_ The chapter is titled "What if I talk about race wrong?"

Oluo notes that "you WILL screw this up," because talking about race is hard. (That's why she wrote the book.) She notes that "These conversations will always be emotional and loaded to various degrees - and if they are not, then you are likely not having the right conversation" (p. 51).

I appreciate that she gives practical advice on what to do when the conversations do go wrong. She also provides tips to help them go right. #8 is especially helpful: "Ask yourself: Am I trying to be right, or am I trying to do better? Conversations about racism should never be about winning. ... Because your opponent isn't a person, it's the system of racism that often shows up in the words and actions of other people" (p.. 48).

Whether you have read the book or not, please consider joining us on Tuesday. We've had about 30 members of our community involved so far, with 15 on average per session. First timers are welcome - just bring an inquisitive mind and open heart.

Feb 22, 2025, 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM

Mar 1, 2025, 8 to 10 AM

Mar 1, 2025, 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM