Antiracism Learning Circles

•

First Unitarian Portland with be again offering online antiracism circles. Theses circles are open to all; several members of INUUC have participated in these circles in the past and we highly encourage everyone to consider attending!

Registration for this fall is now open. Circles start the week of September 23.

Full descriptions, schedules, and registration information are HERE.

A printable flyer is HERE.

This fall 2024 we are offering:

  • Seeing White—the real history of the US, the one none of us were taught in school. Start your journey here! Documentary podcast series from Scene on Radio.
  • The Land That Has Never Been Yet—an examination of whether we have ever had a real democracy. Documentary podcast series from Scene on Radio.
  • The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story—edited by Nikole Hannah-Jones. A profoundly reveling vision of American past and present.
  • Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication—by Oren J. Sofer, including skill building around curiosity and care.
  • Caste: The Origins of our Discontents—by Isabel Wilkerson. How we have been shaped by a hidden caste system.  
  • Democracy Awakening: Notes on the State of America—by Heather Cox Richardson. What we need to do to reclaim democracy, with Martha and Sandy Nichols facilitating.
  • How We Win the Civil War: Securing a Multiracial Democracy and Ending White Supremacy for Good—by Steve Phillips, including analysis of how the Confederates have never stopped fighting.
  • Indian Country 101—learn Native history in the US up to the present. Build skills to offend natives less and engage with tribes more effectively.

LEARNING CIRCLES are small discussion cohorts based on a book or podcast that provide:

  • Important learning about white supremacy, racism, and our national history
  • The opportunity to build trust and go deep in small group discussions over time
  • A safe place to have difficult discussions and deal with discomfort
  • An opportunity to create and strengthen relationships with others
  • Connection, focus, and purpose in a virtual setting

How Do LEARNING CIRCLES Work?

  • Each cohort (typically 4–12) gathers for a series (from 6–12 sessions) of facilitated Zoom discussions.
  • Register for specific Learning Circle(s). Meeting dates & times vary.
  • Everyone is given the opportunity to share reactions, then discuss as a group.
  • We ask that you plan to attend all sessions so we can build bonds of trust and insight.