Beyond the Battle Lines: Channeling Curiosity, Humility, and Platinum During Racial Strife

Abstract

<p>The goal of this program is to discuss how curiosity, humility, and platinum empathy can be used to discuss racial issues, particularly when emotions are running high. Often times, individuals who identify as white make honest attempts to be allies and often get blindsided by things like white guilt, white obliviousness, etc. that derail their efforts. In addition, people of color who are attempting to express their frustration with interpersonal microaggressions find themselves having difficulty being heard through their hurt and discontent. Although these miscommunications are not intentional, they can still do harm to everyone involved in the exchange. Learning to use the tools of curiosity, humility, and platinum empathy will help promote civic discourse during difficult moments, help white individuals find ways to overcome common pitfalls when discussing race, and allow people of color to be empowered in speaking their truth while engaging in dialogue.</p>