The Mad River Valley Anti-Racism Coalition (MRVARI) was founded in 2018, to further the cause of racial justice, at both the macro and the micro level. The macro level is kind of obvious: nearly everyone I know in my community wishes for harmony, equality, and the eradication of racial violence and persecution. (To my knowledge, I don't believe I know any "overt" racists). But for me, it's the micro level that is the most interesting, and the most powerful. It's where we can uncover the invisible assumptions and ways of thinking (we ALL have them!) that undergird a system of inequality. Working together at the micro level, we can shine a light into the dark corners of our subjective minds.

Years ago, as I began delving into these questions (catalyzed by a graduate course), I was shocked to begin to discover all that I did not know. Initially, I felt inexplicably guilty – frustrated, as though I'd been kept in the dark against my will. I experienced a sense of disorientation and confusion. I noticed that questions about race felt contentious, difficult to address with others. I struggled to formulate my thoughts, as though I suddenly had lost my grasp of plain English. I didn't want to hurt anyone's feelings. I was afraid of revealing my ignorance.

Eventually, these emotions fused into a determination: to evolve, at all costs. I realized that fear of discomfort not only impedes us from growing, but it also immobilizes us in systems that perpetuate violence and harm. Because I did not want to collude in the suffering of others, I resolved to simply forge ahead, initiating respectful discussions with other people, no matter how weird or uncomfortable it all felt. A handful of kind and tolerant Black friends helped orient me to the unlearning that lay before me, as a white woman. I'm so grateful for their efforts!

It turned out that I wasn't as alone as I felt! MRVARI (The Mad River Valley Anti Racism Initiative) grew out of discussions with a great many people in my community – neighbors who shared a common desire to push their thinking, in the service of positive change. One of the guiding principles that has evolved with our group is "expect/accept non-closure at the end of the meeting." Although we all long for a quick fix, the struggle for justice is ongoing, and requires our sustained focus and dedication. Won't you join us this Sunday night (7/23)? We meet from 6:30 to 8:00 pm, at the Village Meeting House (ground floor of Waitsfield UCC). All are welcome.

Event Info

Nov 25, 2024, 8 to 10 AM

Nov 26, 2024, 6:30 to 8 PM

Nov 30, 2024, 10 AM to 4 PM