21-Day Racial Equity Challenge

TODAY’S CHALLENGE

• Option 1: Call and share your thoughts about the challenge! Call the community feedback line at ‪(315) 726-3577 and record a message. A portion of your recording may be used to help recap this challenge or help promote future equity challenges. We look forward to hearing about your experience!
• Option 2: Get social. Share on social media how you will remain committed to advancing equity in Central New York. Use the hashtag #cnyequity
• Option 3: Register and attend “A Community Conversation with Dr. Ibram X. Kendi” a virtual event presented by The Friends of the Central Library (TONIGHT) October 21, 2020, at 7:00 pm.

CHALLENGES FOR THE FUTURE

As you scroll through social media, shopping online, or browse the internet, take note of the influencers you follow on social media and the advertisements representing your favorite brands. What messages and values do these brands and influencers represent regarding racial equity and inclusion? Do these influencers and brands align with your values regarding racial equity and inclusion?

Shift the way you talk about others. Creating equitable outcomes requires that we change the way we talk about members of our community, focusing on their aspirations rather than their challenges. This is called “asset-framing.” Watch videos from Trabian Shorters, founder and CEO of BMe Community, discussing how to put asset-framing into practice.

Do better. Many white people do not get involved in the work of racial justice because they do not know where to begin or how to use their voice to promote equity. Please read and challenge yourself to take a few of the actions in this article from Medium, “103 Things White People Can Do for Racial Justice“. It is going to take all of us to dismantle racism. Today, make the choice to use your voice in support of those who are rarely heard.

As a reminder, here are other opportunities presented throughout the challenge to continue your equity journey in Central New York:
• Learn more about the LGBTQ+ community here in Central New York by volunteering at ACR Health’s Q Center. Cultural Competency/LGBTQ Sensitivity trainings for agencies and organizations are available free of charge.
• Join the conversation and learn more about how you and your family can be a part of ending systemic racism in our community through InterFaith Works’ Community Wide Dialogue to End Racism and other community programs dedicated to racial and social equity. For more information, contact Center for Dialogue Director Peter Willner at 315-449-3552, ext. 102, or email pwillner@ifwcny.org.
• Get involved and support community initiatives that tackle Central New York’s most complex issues such as:
o Early Childhood Alliance: Dedicated to ensuring that all children have the means to grow and thrive.
o Greater Syracuse H.O.P.E.: Community residents and stakeholders collaborate to create effective pathways of opportunity, resulting in a community with an inclusive future.
o Work Train: Driven by a collaborative of funders and community partners dedicated to addressing the challenge of un-and-underemployment in Central New York.

Inspired by what you did throughout this challenge and are eager to learn more? Check out these resources to further your knowledge and remain active participants in the fight against racial injustice:
• Read the book Me and White Supremacy: A 28-Day Challenge to Combat Racism, Change the World, and Become a Good Ancestor by Layla F. Saad
• Learn more about renowned author, Ibram X. Kendi, and his work surrounding antiracist research through the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research.
• Participate in the Black History Bootcamp: A 21 Day Walking Meditation by GirlTrek