Did you know that WES has partnered with Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ) DC to host workshops aimed at helping folks engage in the sometimes difficult discussions about racism, xenophobia, hatred and oppression?  Since WES is a majority white congregation, we feel it’s especially important for white people to practice because many of us have been socialized to not talk about race, racism, or white supremacy. It is challenging to respond effectively to racism, especially in the moment.

WES members Laura Bradshaw, Danna Pope and Rachel Alexander, along with others, have been leading this small initiative in the greater DMV area (and beyond!) to hone people’s skills and build confidence to engage in meaningful conversations about racism and other racialized discrimination.  WES has hosted three workshops to date (click here for the workshop description) and both have quickly filled, averaging 40 – 60 people in attendance, approximately 10% of whom are WES members. The cohort of highly trained social justice educators who facilitated the January workshop is pictured here.  Don’t they look like a fun bunch to smash racism with?  The plan is to offer another session in the Spring. If you are interested in learning more, feel free to reach out to Danna, Laura or Rachel.