Please forgive me, but there are so many discussions possible and necessary with these two chapters! See you Friday!
1. On page 128 Lemon talks of how we grew up with what we considered "normal". That norm is now being challenged in many ways, personally and societally. What is most obvious to you? What is hardest for you to accept? What parts of your early-life's "normal" are you still coming to terms with or afraid to accept as once having been your truth?
2. What are your thoughts about Isabel Wilkerson's take on the "caste" vs. "racism"? MLK, Jr. realized "segregation was just another word for caste." Do you agree? Wilkerson goes on to say, "We need new language in the era of upheaval that we live in now." How will a new language help elicit the necessary changes?
3. "Changing hearts and minds is a noble ambition, but I'm more interested in changing behaviors." Lemon describes advertisers' awareness of the economic benefits of changing their ways to accommodate the masses. Do you believe the shifts he highlights could make a difference? "The most civilized way to wage our uncivil war is to make it clear that a price will be paid for racism - and for the perception of racism - as it pervades the culture in which we hope to do business with each other." What are you willing to do or give up in order to make an economic statement against racism?
4. In chapter 7 Lemon tells us that anger, solidarity, compassion and vision make change happen. Do you think any one is best at creating long-lasting change? Can you think of any other attributes to change?
5. Some general thinkers:
Do you talk to your friends about racism? If yes, what are some surprising things you've learned? If not, why do you think that is?
Lemon makes a clear argument that we didn't get here by accident. What White supremacist structures are still currently in place preventing equity and equality for all Americans in this country?
What purposeful actions are you taking after reading this book? What personal next steps do you anticipate?
