Week Six: Chapters 10 & 11: Readings, Questions and Videos

 Stopping our racist patterns must be more important than working to convince others that we don’t have them.

– Robin DiAngelo

We need to reflect on when we cry and when we don’t, and why. In other words, what does it take to move us?

– Robin DiAngelo

This Week’s Reading

Chapter 10 (pages 123 – 129)

Chapter 11 (pages 131 – 138)

Reading Summary

Chapter 10

The author learned from decades of experience that there are unspoken rules for how to give white people feedback on racist assumptions and patterns. Most notably, the cardinal rule is to not give feedback at all. White fragility punishes the person giving feedback and demands silence. However, feedback is a key element in being able to address and dismantle racism. The guidelines that are typically acceptable insist on white people feeling comfortable and supporting the racial status quo. Focusing on the feedback, instead of the delivery or messenger, is key to building the stamina necessary for continued engagement.

Optional pre-reading question:

• Reflect on this quote from the book: “I repeat: stopping our racist patterns must be more important than working to convince others that we don’t have them. We do have them, and people of color already know we have them; our efforts to prove otherwise are not convincing.” (p. 129)

Chapter 11

In this chapter, the author reviews the historical impact of white women’s tears on black people and white men. Heartfelt emotions are important; however, when and why we cry is also political. Emotions are shaped by our biases, beliefs, and cultural frameworks, and our emotions drive behaviors that impact other people. When a white woman cries over racism, regardless of her intentions, most of the attention will immediately go to her. For people of color, white tears demonstrate a white person’s racial insulation and privilege.

Optional pre-reading question:

• Reflect on this quote from the book: “We need to reflect on when we cry and when we don’t, and why. In other words, what does it take to move us?” (p. 135)