Ask Amy: Friend wonders about racist pals
Racism is a choice, and a racist person has many opportunities to learn, reflect, and change their mind.
You describe yourself as “antiracist.” An antiracist has an ethical duty to try to engage with racist people and institutions in order to inspire this kind of change.
The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture has published a guide about how to incorporate antiracist ideals into your own life. They suggest:
Seek clarity: “Tell me more about ____.”
Offer an alternative perspective: “Have you ever considered ____.”
Speak your truth: “I don’t see it the way you do. I see it as _____.”
Find common ground: “We don’t agree on _____ but we can agree on _____.”
Give yourself the time and space you need: “Could we revisit this conversation about ____ tomorrow.”
Set boundaries: “Please do not say _____ again to me or around me.”
In order to live your ideals, it would involve you continuing to communicate with these racist friends.
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