1. Our Investment in Whiteness
May 7, 2017

2. Why Talk About Racism? Why Now?

3. When did you first experience “whiteness
When did you first experience “whiteness?” (if you have) What was that like?

4. How many would be offended (or unhappy) if you were told you are a white supremacist? Why?

5. How many of you can agree that you are the recipient of many advantages solely because you are white? What are some of those race-based advantages?

6. More Examples of White Privilege:
More Examples of White Privilege: * I never worry the police may stop me for driving while white * When I watch TV I have no difficulty finding shows which feature white characters * If I cut myself, the flesh-colored bandaid matches my skin * I easily find hair care products which match my hair texture * I can usually cash a check with only one piece of ID * When I was young and studied American history, I studied white people and was taught my race made America what it is * No one assumes my career success is because I received special treatment such as Affirmative Action

24. A Few Facts: * The only factor demonstrated to be related to police killings is race of the victim * Black Americans are 2.5 times more likely than white Americans to be killed by police * In Q1-2016, 12% of Blacks killed by police were unarmed; 6% of Whites killed by police were unarmed * Blacks with a college degree are twice as likely to be unemployed than whites with a degree

25. Prior to Presidential campaign of 2016, only 6% of Americans believed race is a national problem White denial is not new: * in % of Whites believed Blacks were treated equally; * in % of Whites believed Black children received an equal education; * in 1963, 67% of Whites believed civil rights movement asked too much too soon * in 1851 an American physician diagnosed slaves who ran away as mentally ill (drapetomania)

27. WHAT CAN WE DO? Nothing will change a 400 year history of American inequality and bias overnight! To start we can: * recognize our own prejudices * confront subtle racism * practice talking about race (even if you make errors most people will respect your effort) * listen when POC talk about their experience

28. Characteristics of Racially Integrated UU Churches
Characteristics of Racially Integrated UU Churches * Minister and Congregation are visibly concerned with issues of race relations & justice * Congregation has a vision of being racially diverse, and leadership supported that vision * Congregation and leadership took specific actions to be inclusive, often against internal resistance or fear * Congregation incorporated black experience into worship (ushers, black music, black speakers)