Breaking the Silence: Confronting the Taboo of Racism

Join me in LA on August 12 for a discussion white women need to confront

As a white woman, I try to remain aware of the privilege I hold, despite experiencing my own painful form of sexism and workplace abuse. Whatever I have been through pales in comparison to the daily assaults on their humanity that so many Black and brown people face.

Over the past two-plus years I have been on my own anti-racism journey. I still am learning every day, but my awareness has grown more than ever before.

I have written about how we white women need to speak out about the myriad abuses in the natural food sector and beyond. If we don’t, we are complicit. If white women stopped upholding the patriarchy and white supremacy, it would collapse. I truly believe that. And yet, I know more white women upholding the system than are fighting to bring it down. And I could be doing more, we are all complicit.

That’s why I was thrilled when Francesca James invited me to participate in a panel she is organizing called: “Breaking the Silence: Confronting the Taboo of Racism”. Francesca wears many hats, including being president of the nonprofit, We Need Each Other.

As Francesca puts it: “We believe that addressing racism requires open dialogue and active participation regarding the need for white comfort, which causes an avoidance, affecting all members of society.”

And here is how she describes the event:

Join us for an eye-opening event where we aim to break down barriers and foster open conversations about the taboo subject of racism. This event provides a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, learn from one another, and work towards a more inclusive future.

Through a facilitated panel discussion, and interactive conversation, we aim to challenge preconceived notions and encourage attendees to question their own biases. By participating in "Breaking the Silence", you will gain valuable insights, tools, and strategies to combat racism personally and professionally. Together, we can create a society that embraces diversity, equality, and justice for all.

This in-person gathering will take place on Saturday, August 12, 5-7pm at 714 Warren Lane, Inglewood, California. Register here. I hope you can join us. And if you’re not in the LA area, please forward this to someone who is. Thank you.