May | 2018 | Beyond Diversity Too

Race and Rage: Discussing the Undiscussable

by lablaze75

Rage

Planning and development at the Beyond Diversity Resource Center continues with respect to an upcoming workshop on what is considered by many to be a largely forbidden subject. Titled “Race and Rage: A Workshop about a Taboo Topic,” this three-day course (July 11-13) wades into the controversial waters surrounding race and the emotionally charged reactions they often elicit from all sides.

Race and rage are topics as old as the resettlement of America. This workshop is for pioneering individuals who are willing to work through emotionally difficult topics with bravery and compassion. Organizers and facilitators are excited about the transformational opportunities this work presents – particularly with respect to building authentic cross-race communication.

The overbearing stereotype of rage is it being rooted in the loss of self-control. While it’s true that can happen, rage also takes other, highly beneficial forms. When properly recognized and interpreted, rage can inform us about many aspects of the human condition. In fact, it can be used as a tool for channeling compassion, which is a key element of anti-oppression work.

Through expert facilitation, the “Race and Rage” workshop helps participants learn how to weather the often surging expression of feelings (from self and by others) associated with rage. The sessions also helps participants gain new insights, designed to change their understanding—and reduce fear—of race and rage.

As it relates to race, it’s not uncommon for rage to be more easily channeled by people of color. This workshop will explore pathways of entry for white people to find and use rage as a means of inspiring productive internal change and meaningful action associated with race work.

What
“Race and Rage: A Workshop about a Taboo Topic”

When
July 11 – 13 (Wednesday through Friday)