“How to Be An Anti-Racist” Book Study and Discussion

To Commemorate MLK Day 2020, the Peace & Social Justice Committee offers a study and discussion of the timely and important new book from Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, who previously became the youngest winner of the National Book Award for his previous work, “Stamped From the Beginning.” Print or digital copies of the book may be acquired from your local library, and can be purchased online or from the Faith In Action table in Forbes.

Kendi, a professor of history and international relations and founder of the Antiracist Research and Policy Center at American University, argues that a redefinition of terms — focusing on policies rather than attitudes and feelings — is in order of we are to properly confront the historical legacy and ongoing harms of racism. And 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.”

From the publisher:

Ibram X. Kendi’s concept of antiracism reenergizes and reshapes the conversation about racial justice in America–but even more fundamentally, points us toward liberating new ways of thinking about ourselves and each other. Instead of working with the policies and system we have in place, Kendi asks us to think about what an antiracist society might look like, and how we can play an active role in building it.

In his memoir, Kendi weaves together an electrifying combination of ethics, history, law, and science–including the story of his own awakening to antiracism–bringing it all together in a cogent, accessible form. He begins by helping us rethink our most deeply held, if implicit, beliefs and our most intimate personal relationships (including beliefs about race and IQ and interracial social relations) and reexamines the policies and larger social arrangements we support. How to Be an Antiracist promises to become an essential book for anyone who wants to go beyond an awareness of racism to the next step of contributing to the formation of a truly just and equitable society.

Join us for:

• Part 1 of the discussion: Sun., Jan.19 at 3-5PM in Forbes OR Thurs., Jan. 23 in the Cottage

• Part 2 of the discussion: Sun., Jan. 26 at 3-5PM in Forbes OR Thurs., Jan. 30 in the Cottage

Contact: justice@uusm.org