Racial Justice

Initial Meeting Notes

February 7, 2017

Summary: The Racial Justice Group, with 53 women attending the meeting, explored several ideas about how to gain an understanding of systemic racism. The members discussed their concerns about disparities in the justice system, the court system, and efforts to re-segregate schools. (Forty four percent of Charlotte Mecklenburg schools are considered to be high poverty schools.)

Suggested Goals:

* Identify ways in which we can educate ourselves and increase our awareness of how entrenched racism is in our society

* Be intentional in our actions; share ways to educate and engage one another.

* Be willing to be uncomfortable and go to new places.

Suggested Action:

* Read two books recommended at the meeting: Waking Up White – and Finding Myself in the Story of Race, by Debby Irving, and The Third Reconstruction, by The Reverend Dr. William J. Barber II.

* Visit the open air market held at the former Eastland Mall site, which is a gathering place for families on the East side, and think about whether the market could provide a way to build relationships with the broader community. E.g., It may be a place to have work exhibited by artists at the McColl Center who are working on racial justice themes. Work with the artists to build relationships using at as a basis for conversation around difficult topics

* Work with public libraries, which are good places for networking and connecting with the community.

* Consider joining the NAACP.

* Participate in an online seminar held by Patti Digh, author and social justice activist. The seminar combines online readings, live conversations and interviews about racism. The next session is March 15 – April 20.

Next Meeting: February 28, 5:30 – 7:00 pm at the McColl Center to further outline goals.