Painting New Paths
Here are some resources that made an impression on us as we continue our journeys to learn about the Black experience. We hope they provide inspiration and insight.
White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo
Recommendation by Sydney Bennett
While the book White Fragility, written by Robin DiAngelo, has its own issues of condescension, the book provides an incredibly important jumping-off point for the white reader. If you are new to this educational journey this is a great point to start from. DiAngelo, who is described as an anti-racist educator, explores the defensiveness that she sees white people turning to when questioned about race and racism.
I’ve found myself becoming comfortable with realizing I am wrong, I have been wrong, and it can no longer be an excuse of oblivion. I am transforming, and it’s going to be a life long marathon. I encourage readers to absorb this book, reflect on your personal experiences, and then dive back in to learn more.
Below are a few links to provide a better holistic understanding of the concept White Fragility as well as opportunities to learn the perspectives of BIPOC’s.
An article, produced by The Atlantic: The Dehumanizing Condescension of White Fragility
A podcast discussion, from WVXU
A summary of the author’s view points
An informative review from Amazon, by Adrian Liang
Order “White Fragility” from The Tiny Bookstore
When They See Us
Recommendation by Bianca Botero-Murphy
When They See Us is a gutting portrayal of the infamous Central Park 5 case from the 1980s. Ava DuVernay, creator, writer, and director, powerfully reveals the systemic racism in the criminal justice space in a way that demands attention and action. This was my first look into how unjust so many systems in our country are and ignited me to continue to learn and figure out how to not only be an ally, but also antiracist.
Watch “When They See Us” on Netflix
She was 13 when a beaten John Lewis arrived at her Alabama family’s home, seeking refuge by Brad Harper
Recommendation by Alistair Rock
I was moved by this article about Valda Harris Montgomery, who was a child when John Lewis arrived at her family’s home in 1961, seeking refuge. Her parents opened their door to Lewis and the other Freedom Riders. She said watching Alabama honor him was “surreal.”