On Juneteenth, we heard examples of how racism has affected our own MIT alumni. Since then, racism has continued to manifest in our communities.

Many of us have come to realize that there is so much we don’t know about the Black experience and what creates structural racism. The book  “How to Be an Antiracist” by Ibram Kendi was recommended repeatedly by attendees of our last meeting. So, we will be sharing notes on the first part of the book  (chapters 1 through 8) and discussing the content. We would love to hear what stands out to you in the book or notes, what's your take, and discuss if and how we can use anything learned to impact our spheres of influence.

To obtain notes, please register before July 24th as the document will be emailed to all registered attendees then. Note: some of us are reading via audiobook, each chapter is about 30 minutes long, but can be read hands-free!

Also, at the last meeting, Al Tervalon encouraged us to do something with what we had learned. Some of us will share our recent actions and plans on these issues. If you are active in any organization that addresses structural racism, we invite you to share your experiences with us so we can all learn more about your organization.

Finally, we got word that the author, Ibram Kendi will be discussing his book virtually on Monday, July 20th. The event is hosted by Prince George Library in Maryland. We hope some of our organizers will be able to attend to come back and share with the rest of us.

Ibram Virtual Discussion with Prince George Library

About "How to Be an Antiracist" by Ibram Kendi - A New York Times Bestseller

“Ibram X. Kendi's concept of antiracism reenergizes and reshapes the conversation about racial justice in America--but even more fundamentally, points us toward liberating new ways of thinking about ourselves and each other. Instead of working with the policies and system we have in place, Kendi asks us to think about what an antiracist society might look like, and how we can play an active role in building it.

In his memoir, Kendi weaves together an electrifying combination of ethics, history, law, and science--including the story of his own awakening to antiracism--bringing it all together in a cogent, accessible form. He begins by helping us rethink our most deeply held, if implicit, beliefs and our most intimate personal relationships (including beliefs about race and IQ and interracial social relations) and reexamines the policies and larger social arrangements we support. How to Be an Antiracist promises to become an essential book for anyone who wants to go beyond an awareness of racism to the next step of contributing to the formation of a truly just and equitable society.”

https://www.ibramxkendi.com/how-to-be-an-antiracist-1

MIT COVID-19 Response Funds

In exchange for the value you receive from this event, we ask that you make a donation (in an amount of your choosing) to the MIT Covid-19 Response Funds.

MIT Alums:

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