To date, I have the honour of talking with psychologists, social workers, former MLA, lawyers, youth, Minister of cabinet, Vice Provost at a University, documentary film maker, former media broadcaster, and policy makers. Each episode ends with some calls to action so the listener can walk away with ideas they can think about, do, and do more of on their anti-racism journey.
Jordon shares his family’s history from his great great grandparents to the present. He noted he did not feel a sense of belonging growing up in a predominantly white community where people made fun of his kung fu practice and would call him racial slurs. He voices the importance of this message: Don’t be complicit and reinforce your values.” By this, he means to focus on community and step up against racism of all forms.
Cindy shares how growing up, she did not feel she belonged in either the Chinese or Canadian culture. She discloses in high school, she realized the significance of being herself rather than seeking acceptance from the external. She notes the importance of getting to know your family, history, language, and culture. She voices the value of learning, unlearning, reflecting, and asking why. She suggests looking within yourself and seeking community with others in order to grow and make changes.
Bal shares how she experienced overt racism as a child and continues to experience other forms of racism. She notes the importance of cultural competence as it is not about checking boxes. She voices the significance of acknowledging cultural differences; continuing to work to understand the impacts of racism. She states that she lives by, I see you and appreciate your unique views.
Judi shares how she grew up in a divisive community in rural Alberta. She voices the importance of volunteerism and community impact. She shares how relationships are the core; when you get to know people, everything changes. She notes that if you are uncomfortable, then there is more work to do.
Kafui shares how she was originally from Ghana. She is the Chair of the Black Section of Psychology with the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA). She voices the importance of collecting race-based data to hold organizations accountable as there is a need to hear Black, Indigenous, and Racialized individuals’ experiences of oppression. She shared that psychology is rooted in racism; she and colleagues formed the Black, Indigenous and Racialized People Psychology Web. She shares the importance of building community through transformation.
