21 Day Racial Equity Challenge (2020)

WELCOME TO THE

Thank you for joining United Way of the National Capital Area (United Way NCA) on the 21 Day Race Equity Journey. This is an important first step in a process of change that will help shape our collective understanding of race, equity and inclusion. This is a process of reflection and understanding, so it’s important to suspend any judgement of yourself or others.

What is Racial Equity?

Racial equity is about applying justice and a little bit of common sense to a system that’s been out of balance. When a system is out of balance, people of color feel the impacts most acutely, but, to be clear, an imbalanced system makes all of us pay.

What is the 21 Day Race Equity Journey?

Over the next 21 days we will discuss and explore topics that vary— from race equity, socioeconomics, health and education. We will unpack how equity plays a role in determining outcomes of people through different stages of life depending on their intersections of race, gender, sexuality and/or socioeconomic standing.

As we unpack various topics throughout this journey, you may experience moments of discomfort, resistance or find yourself becoming defensive. We invite you to “stay in the room” and keep an open mind with the understanding that any feelings that may pop up are a normal part of growth. Our society is complicated, and many tools of oppression are intentionally designed to pit people against each other.

You may also register to receive this journey as daily newsletters. Each day will begin with a brief introduction on the topic and provide a list of activities you may pursue to learn more. Most activity options range from 5 to 10 minutes with a couple just over 20 minutes. Feel free to take this journey at your own pace or go through all the activities in each day. This journey is what you are comfortable with and we welcome whatever boundaries you may have.

Thank you for coming along with us.