Hello, white women. This is for you.

Last night, the incredible Laurabel Mba facilitated a 2-hour conversation with 8 white women sat around my dining room table.  Some had known each other for years and others were meeting for the first time. We were united by:
(1) the recognition that there are many privileges that our white skin provides, and
(2) the desire to better understand how we can recognize and stand up to the racism that is so prevalent around us. 

I personally developed a deeper understanding of the realities that people of colour face every day, I have a better idea of how I can be an ally and accomplice, and I finished the evening with an even stronger desire to do my part to learn, speak up against racism, and support people of colour. One of many take aways from the evening is that it is okay to be imperfect and have more to learn. We are all on our own journeys. But it is not okay to stop moving forward, to stop learning, to stop finding ways to learn and do, even when it is uncomfortable (especially when it is uncomfortable).

We are so fortunate that Race 2 Dinner NL exists in our province. Laurabel creates a space that is comfortable and free from judgement. The conversation can be heavy, but the table is supportive.

For other white women:
If you’ve been thinking about planning a dinner, do it.
If you’re hearing about Race 2 Dinner NL for the first time, read more about it.
Please consider organizing a dinner, attending an open session, or seeking resources on racism and anti-racism. You can start by following Race 2 Dinner NL on LinkedIn and/or Facebook.
Please continue, or start, your journey.
You will be better for it.
If enough of us come to the table, our communities and province will be better for it.

This isn’t about Black History Month. The micro and macro aggressions that people of colour face are just as problematic on March 1 as they were on February 29.

Thank you, Laurabel, for being a bright light and doing such important work. It is not lost on me the sacrifice you’re making when you bring others to the table. It is appreciated and deeply respected. I hope the experience of each woman last night, and how we each apply it moving forward, helps you in achieving your mission.

Thank you to the women who joined with open minds and vulnerability. I hope we can continue to share resources and have honest conversations.

(As an added bonus, hosting a dinner is also an opportunity to support a local restaurant if cooking isn’t your thing. We were delighted with the meal catered by Fork Restaurant last night.)