"How to be an Antiracist" Learning & Discussion Group - Session 1

This winter, the Peace & Social Justice Committee offers another opportunity to read and discuss Dr. Ibram X Kendi’s “How to be an Antiracist.” Last year’s acclaimed New York Times #1 Bestseller was our guide for several sessions of provocative, important learning and dialogue in early 2020. In the time since, our country has been roiled by more violence, protests, and a renewed call to confront systemic racism. And this instructive volume has solidified its place as something of a “common read” to understand both racism and anti-racism today.
Everyone is welcome to join us as we reconvene to review Dr. Kendi’s lessons and apply them to what we have seen and experienced during this difficult year.

Ibram Kendi is a professor of history and international relations and founder of the Antiracist Research and Policy Center at American University, along with a new center at Boston University. He became the youngest winner of the National Book Award for his previous work, “Stamped From the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America.” In “How to be an Antiracist,” he argues that a redefinition of terms — focusing on policies rather than attitudes and feelings — is in order if we are to properly confront the historical legacy and enduring oppressive systems of racism. Drawing on his personal story of struggle and awakening, he writes that “being an anti-racist requires persistent self-awareness, constant self-criticism, and regular self-examination.”

Please join us for this important work!*

Join us in virtual space Saturday, January 23 and Saturday, January 30, 3:00 – 5:00 pm, and Wednesday, February 3, 7:009 – 9:00 pm.

*If you are unable to read the book before joining one or more of these sessions, you are still welcome. Shorter summaries and reviews of the book are available online including here: https://bit.ly/3oPZ1CQ