Guest Article: A Challenge to Confront Racism

Join us from September 8 – 28 for the United Way of the Lakeshore 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge.

 By Martha Gabrielse
 
The topic of race continues to be one that is difficult for many Americans to discuss. In the face of current conflicts and struggles, finding a way to personally take part in rejecting racism and healing our country has never been more important. Each of us has our own story and history with racism. For me: born in 1961 and raised by parents who were active in the Civil Rights Movement; my faith and family values support and direct me in my commitment to confront racism. It’s personal. It starts with each one of us.
 
As a member of the Newaygo Community Committee for United Way of the Lakeshore each day I strive to uphold the organization’s Equity Statement: We commit to developing racially conscious partnerships and processes that anticipate unintended outcomes and ensure the inclusion of all people we serve, for our community, and our organization.
 
That’s why I’m excited about the United Way 21-Day Equity Challenge. It’s a way to consciously and personally address racism with daily reflection, facilitated through participation in an interactive digital resource. It allows individuals to take it upon themselves to deepen their understanding of and willingness to confront racism.
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What happens during the Challenge? 
For 21 days, participants receive an email “prompt” with a short reading, video or audio file.  Participants are encouraged to take about ten to fifteen minutes each day with the material in the prompt, though extra resources are provided in case they want to dig further into the day’s topic.
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Join us from September 8 – 28 for the United Way of the Lakeshore 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge. This self-guided learning journey is a great way to learn about the history and impacts of racism, and how it has shaped the lives of people in our community. Help dismantle racism, raise awareness, shift attitudes, and change outcomes in your community. Register today at:
https://www.unitedwaylakeshore.org/21-day-equity-challenge
 

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