As a Black-Led, multi-racial space, we recognize the global reach of Anti-Blackness. May 17th, experienced facilitator, GenDoc led a closed session on Anti-Blackness for Black folks and will be hosting an additional session on Dismantling Anti-Blackness for non-Black Garden members, May 24th at 2pm PST. In this short interview, I got to chat with GenDoc more about these sessions and the vision she will be stewarding as we lean into crafting shared language and tactics specifically for our intentional community. Non-Black Garden members can RSVP for this Saturday's upcoming session here.

Until next our avatars meet,

🪻J Mase

PS: Have a one-time-event or a recurring event and need a place to host? Email us at info@meetatgarden.com!

Garden is a free 24/7 space, but it does cost money for us to maintain it on Gather.Town. If you'd like to donate to this work, consider throwing some money in the pot here. To send donations directly through our 501c3 fiscal sponsor, email us!

Why is it important to talk about anti-Blackness in BIPOC spaces?

The system of racism relies on two main components, White supremacy and Anti- Blackness. These ideas are ubiquitous, and no one escapes them without the intention to do so. BIPOC people can easily identify the need to address White supremacy, we must be just as intentional regarding anti-blackness.

What do you hope folks take away from these sessions?

Without shared concepts and language, it is nearly impossible for people to effectively communicate. Good communication is essential in addressing any topic but even more so when addressing something like racism. I intend for these sessions to provide an opportunity for Gardeners to develop a shared language and framework around the topic of racism in general and anti-Blackness specifically. I hope these will be used to support a culture that is welcoming across identities.

What important perspectives and facilitation styles do you bring to this discussion?

Can I say that I really hate this question? /j 🤣

 The real value and use of these sessions will be most determined by the group and our willingness to embrace the mission of curating a culture aligned with our shared values. This also requires healthy engagement with diverse ideas.

With that said, I am a Black person. I have an obvious vested interest in combating anti-Blackness.  I am happy to use almost a decade of skill building around this topic in the service of this goal.

Who should come to these anti-Blackness workshops?

In short, everyone. All of us, the B’s and the IPOCs have a shared journey. Being intentional about treating each other well is important.

Non-Black Garden members can RSVP for Dismantling Anti-Blackness, (Saturday, May 24th @ 2pm PST)  here.