where the words equality, equity, and inclusion are our love language
by Austin Channing Brown
Footnotes
Reflection Questions
photo by Leo_Visions via Unsplash
Over the last couple of weeks, we've talked about getting clearer about the work we have been called to as agents of change. But taking action is only a portion of our freedom-work life cycle. We also have to incorporate intentional learning and mindful reflection. This cycle of education, action, reflection is called praxis. Our praxis, then, becomes the foundation of both our personal transformation and the community transformation we seek in the world.
And so, in addition to using this newsletter to encourage action, I also want to encourage reflection.
Whether or not you attended the No Kings demonstrations over the weekend, what have those demonstrations taught you?
-Perhaps you were part of organizing them. Did you learn more about providing a "big tent"? Or the inner workings of meetings to organize such events?
-If you attended, did you learn something while there? Have any conversations that you're still thinking about? Heard a speech that shifted something for you? Did you notice anything about the use of humor, signage, conversation?
-If you simply engaged in the online discussion about demonstrations, have you been inspired to ask new questions about organizing strategies?
-Is there anything that sparks for you and your own attempts at organizing people to take a stand?
Take a moment this week, not to debate whether or not the No Kings protests were worth it, but instead ask: what new questions do you have because they took place at all and nearly seven million people joined.
Joy + Justice,
Austin
A blessing: whether you attended one of the demonstrations or not, I hope this week, you will discover that you are not an island unto yourself. I hope you will find that you are one of many still committed to the work of justice.
*PLEASE BE AWARE, THIS NEWSLETTER CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS TO BOOKSHOP.ORG, WHICH MEANS I RECEIVE A SMALL COMMISSION IF YOU CHOOSE TO MAKE A PURCHASE USING THE BOOK LINKS. I WILL BE USING SAID COMMISSION TO FEED MY BOOK ADDICTION, OFFER YOU MORE REVIEWS, AND AROUND AND AROUND WE GO. THE COMMISSION DOES NOT COST YOU ANYTHING, AND I WILL ALWAYS LET YOU KNOW IF I RECEIVED ANY OF THE BOOKS FOR FREE99.
TIP JAR
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Austin Channing Brown is the author of NYT Bestseller and Reese Book Club pick, Im Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness. Her newest book, Full of Myself is already a USA Today bestseller but she's waiting to be placed on your bookshelf.
