My Story: “Well, to me, DEI just means ‘Didn’t Earn It.'”

The words washed over me . . . a familiar yet hostile wave, and I felt exactly like a deer in headlights. I was at a work event 6 years ago, having a casual conversation with a higher up, and there it was—a dismissive, racially charged statement about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

Of course I knew, deep down, that the statement was completely wrong. It was a hurtful and intellectually dishonest simplification of complex issues. But in that moment, I froze. I felt the familiar weight of hesitation: Do I confront this person and potentially create an awkward scene? Do I risk damaging the relationship? Or do I just let it slide? Like many of us, I was either intimidated, prioritizing comfort, or just plain stuck. And, because you can’t cuss (not curse, cuss) out your supervisor’s boss, I walked away feeling disappointed in myself for not moving past that hesitation to take meaningful action.

Moving from Hesitation to Action: A Long Talk

If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation—knowing what’s right but lacking the knowledge or confidence to speak up—I have an opportunity for you.

I’ve been engaged with A Long Talk About The Uncomfortable Truth (ALT) for several years now, and I can tell you it is absolutely time well spent. ALT begins with a 21-day anti-racism activation experience, designed specifically to empower participants with the knowledge and skills to combat racism in their daily lives.

Here’s what the experience is all about:

Pre-Work: You’ll start with self-guided learning on the history and impact of racism.

Discussion Sessions: This is the core experience—two, two-hour group discussion sessions that use interactive large and small group conversations. These sessions, available virtually and in-person, are where you gain the language and tools to move past that “deer in headlights” feeling.

Ongoing Support: After the experience, ALT provides community support to foster continued growth and engagement in anti-racism efforts.

Call to Action: Join Me in Taking The Next Step

The work of anti-racism is a spiritual discipline beloved, and it’s one we can practice together.

I would like to facilitate a group from Central Congregational UCC to go through A Long Talk together.

Some people have expressed interest, and that’s awesome, and we still have room for others. Exact details about the dates and times of the meetings will be out by the third week of January. If, at that time, you decide you would like to join our group, you will be welcome. Just e-mail me at [email protected].

My hope is that through this experience, we can all become better equipped to live out the radical love of Christ and confidently interrupt racism whenever and wherever we encounter it.

Let’s move from hesitation into action together!