How do you feel about the study’s findings on skin color and self-identification in children?
- It’s eye-opening and makes me think about how early these perceptions develop.
- It’s concerning, but it highlights the importance of addressing racial awareness early on.
- It’s a complex issue, and I’m not sure how to feel about it.
- I think the study is outdated and doesn’t reflect the complexities of today’s society.
What’s your favorite takeaway from the study on skin color and racial identity?
- The importance of early childhood experiences in shaping self-perception.
- The complex interplay between physical characteristics and social constructs in identity formation.
- The need for more research on how children develop their understanding of race.
- The reminder that our sense of self is constantly evolving and influenced by various factors.
What makes you nervous about the influence of skin color on young children’s self-image?
- The potential for internalized racism and negative self-perceptions based on skin tone.
- The challenge of creating inclusive environments where children feel valued regardless of their appearance.
- The long-term impact these early experiences can have on children’s lives and opportunities.
- The lack of awareness and understanding surrounding these issues.
What makes you most frustrated about the persistent influence of race on identity formation?
- The fact that children are exposed to racial biases and prejudices at such a young age.
- The slow pace of social progress in dismantling these harmful stereotypes and beliefs.
- The difficulty in addressing these complex issues in meaningful and impactful ways.
- The feeling that we’re still grappling with the same problems generations later.
What are you most excited about in terms of creating a more equitable and inclusive future for children?
- The growing awareness and conversations surrounding race and identity.
- The efforts to promote diversity and representation in media, education, and society as a whole.
- The potential for future generations to grow up with a more nuanced and accepting understanding of race.
- The belief that we can break down these barriers and create a world where all children feel seen and valued.
What do you dream about when it comes to children developing healthy and positive racial identities?
- A world where children feel proud of their heritage and embrace diversity.
- A society where skin color is celebrated as a beautiful variation, not a basis for judgment.
- Education systems that teach children about different cultures and promote empathy and understanding.
- Communities that foster a sense of belonging and celebrate the richness of human diversity.
What happened in the past when you first became aware of the concept of race and skin color?
- I didn’t think much of it at the time.
- I was curious and asked my parents a lot of questions.
- It made me feel uncomfortable and I didn’t understand why people were treated differently.
- It sparked my interest in learning more about different cultures and histories.
What comes to mind when you hear the phrase “racial identification”?
- The complex process of understanding and defining one’s own racial background.
- The social categories and labels assigned to individuals based on race.
- The personal and collective experiences shaped by race and ethnicity.
- The ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice.
What’s your favorite example of a children’s book or movie that celebrates diversity and promotes positive racial identity?
- Hair Love
- The Colors of Us
- Mixed Me!
- I Am Enough
When you were a kid, how did you learn about different races and cultures?
- From my parents and family.
- From school and books.
- From interacting with people from different backgrounds.
- From movies and television shows.
You have a choice of growing up in a world where everyone looks the same or a world where everyone looks different, which do you choose?
- A world where everyone looks different, as it would be more vibrant and interesting.
- A world where everyone looks the same, as it might eliminate prejudice based on appearance.
- I’m not sure, both options have their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
- It doesn’t matter to me, as long as people are treated with respect and dignity.
A specific situation arises where a child makes a comment about another child’s skin color. How do you react?
- Gently correct the child and explain why it’s not appropriate to make such comments.
- Use it as an opportunity to start a conversation about race and diversity.
- Talk to the child’s parents about what happened.
- Ignore it, as children are still learning and don’t always understand the implications of their words.
What keeps you up at night about the future of race relations and the well-being of children of color?
- The persistence of systemic racism and discrimination.
- The increasing polarization and division in society.
- The impact of implicit bias on children’s opportunities and outcomes.
- The fear that things might not get better for future generations.
Which of these activities would you enjoy the most: attending a cultural festival, volunteering at a multicultural center, or having a conversation about race with someone from a different background?
- Attending a cultural festival, as I love experiencing new cultures and traditions.
- Volunteering at a multicultural center, as I want to make a difference in the lives of others.
- Having a conversation about race with someone from a different background, as I’m always eager to learn and broaden my perspectives.
- All of the above sound equally enjoyable to me!
When you think about the study’s findings, what are you most concerned about?
- The potential for these early perceptions of race to solidify into harmful biases.
- The challenge of overcoming ingrained societal prejudices and creating a truly equitable society.
- The impact of racism on children’s mental and emotional well-being.
- The need for continued research and dialogue to address these complex issues.
What aspect of the study’s findings makes you the most hopeful?
- The fact that children are capable of understanding and embracing diversity.
- The potential for early interventions to promote positive racial identity development.
- The belief that change is possible through education, awareness, and empathy.
- The resilience of marginalized communities in the face of adversity.
What is most likely to make you feel discouraged about the state of race relations today?
- Witnessing or experiencing acts of racism and discrimination.
- The lack of progress on issues of racial equality.
- The feeling that people are becoming more divided.
- The realization that there’s still so much work to be done.
In a perfect world, what would children’s understanding of race look like?
- They would see race as a source of celebration and appreciation for human diversity.
- They would recognize and challenge unfair treatment based on race.
- They would feel a sense of belonging and connection to their own racial identity.
- They would grow up in a world free from prejudice and discrimination.
If you could wave a magic wand, what would the perfect outcome be for children of all races growing up in today’s society?
- They would have equal opportunities to succeed, regardless of their race or ethnicity.
- They would feel safe, loved, and valued for who they are.
- They would live in a world where diversity is celebrated and everyone is treated with respect.
- They would inherit a future filled with hope, promise, and the possibility for positive change.
How often do you engage in conversations about race and racism?
- Frequently, as I believe it’s important to have these discussions.
- Occasionally, when the topic comes up naturally.
- Rarely, as I find them to be uncomfortable or challenging.
- I avoid them altogether, as I don’t feel equipped to handle such sensitive topics.
You are at a party and someone makes a racially insensitive joke. What do you do?
- Speak up and challenge the joke, even if it makes others uncomfortable.
- Try to subtly change the subject or redirect the conversation.
- Ignore it and hope that no one else was offended.
- Leave the situation, as I don’t want to engage with that kind of behavior.
How comfortable are you discussing issues of race and racism with your own family and friends?
- Very comfortable, as we have open and honest conversations about these topics.
- Somewhat comfortable, but I’m still figuring out how to navigate these conversations effectively.
- Not very comfortable, as I’m worried about saying the wrong thing or causing conflict.
- I avoid these conversations altogether, as I don’t want to create tension or disagreements.
You have a free afternoon to spend however you like. What do you do?
- Read a book about race and social justice.
- Watch a documentary about a different culture.
- Volunteer at an organization that promotes racial equality.
- Spend time reflecting on my own biases and privileges.
Which of these issues is most likely to be a struggle for you: confronting your own biases, speaking up against racism, educating yourself about different cultures, or understanding systemic racism?
- Confronting my own biases, as it’s difficult to acknowledge and unlearn deeply ingrained beliefs.
- Speaking up against racism, as I’m afraid of saying the wrong thing or making the situation worse.
- Educating myself about different cultures, as I don’t know where to start or how to approach it respectfully.
- Understanding systemic racism, as it’s a complex and multifaceted issue that can feel overwhelming.
Which member of the Peanuts gang are you: Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, Snoopy, or Woodstock?
- Charlie Brown: I’m well-intentioned but often feel unsure of myself.
- Lucy: I’m outspoken and not afraid to speak my mind.
- Linus: I’m thoughtful and try to see things from different perspectives.
- Snoopy: I’m imaginative and march to the beat of my own drum.
- Woodstock: I’m a loyal friend and always there to offer support.
New information related to racial disparities in education comes up in conversation. What is your first response?
- I’m saddened but not surprised, as I’m aware of the systemic inequities that exist.
- I’m outraged and want to do something to address this injustice.
- I’m curious to learn more about the specific factors contributing to these disparities.
- I’m skeptical and want to verify the information before forming an opinion.
Someone asks, “How are you feeling about the current state of race relations?” What’s the actual answer, not just “I’m good”?
- To be honest, I’m feeling overwhelmed and disheartened by the constant news about racial injustice.
- I’m hopeful for the future but also realistic about the challenges we face in dismantling systemic racism.
- I’m trying to stay informed and engaged, but it can be emotionally draining at times.
- I’m committed to being part of the solution, even if it’s just in my own small way.
What’s your go-to resource for staying informed about social justice issues: a specific news outlet, podcast, book, or organization?
- The 1619 Project
- Code Switch (podcast)
- How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi
- The Southern Poverty Law Center
What concept related to race and identity do you most want to explore further: microaggressions, white privilege, intersectionality, or cultural appropriation?
- Microaggressions, as I want to be more aware of the subtle ways that racism manifests itself.
- White privilege, as I’m trying to understand my own privilege and how to use it for good.
- Intersectionality, as I recognize that people’s identities are complex and multi-layered.
- Cultural appropriation, as I want to be respectful of other cultures and avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
What’s your favorite memory related to experiencing a different culture?
- Trying a new cuisine and being amazed by the flavors.
- Learning a few phrases in another language and being able to communicate with locals.
- Attending a traditional ceremony and witnessing the beauty and significance of the rituals.
- Making a connection with someone from a different background and realizing how much we have in common.
What social justice causes are you most passionate about: racial justice, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, environmental justice, or economic justice?
- I’m passionate about all of these causes, as they are interconnected and equally important.
- I’m particularly drawn to racial justice, as I believe it’s the foundation for achieving broader social change.
- I’m most interested in issues that directly affect my community.
- I’m still exploring different causes and figuring out where I can make the most impact.
What is your absolute favorite way to learn about and celebrate diversity: traveling to new places, attending cultural events, reading books by diverse authors, or engaging in conversations with people from different backgrounds?
- Traveling to new places allows me to immerse myself in different cultures and broaden my horizons.
- Attending cultural events exposes me to new art forms, traditions, and perspectives.
- Reading books by diverse authors helps me understand the world through different lenses.
- Engaging in conversations with people from different backgrounds challenges my assumptions and helps me grow as a person.
How would your friends and family describe your stance on racial equality and social justice?
- As a staunch advocate for equality and justice for all.
- As someone who is always learning and trying to be better.
- As someone who cares about these issues but doesn’t always know how to make a difference.
- As someone who avoids conflict and prefers to stay out of these conversations.
Tell us a little about your understanding of how systemic racism operates in society.
- I see systemic racism as a pervasive force that perpetuates racial inequality through institutions and policies.
- I’m still learning about the complexities of systemic racism and how it manifests itself in different ways.
- I believe that systemic racism is a real and urgent issue that requires our attention and action.
- I’m not sure that I fully understand systemic racism, but I’m open to learning more.
If you could choose any one quality to instill in future generations to combat racism, which one would you choose and why: empathy, critical thinking, courage, or allyship?
- Empathy, as it allows us to understand and share the feelings of others.
- Critical thinking, as it helps us question assumptions and challenge the status quo.
- Courage, as it empowers us to speak up against injustice, even when it’s difficult.
- Allyship, as it calls on us to use our privilege to support marginalized communities.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear a news story about a hate crime motivated by race?
- Anger, sadness, and frustration at the senselessness of it all.
- Fear for the safety and well-being of marginalized communities.
- A renewed sense of determination to fight for justice and equality.
- A feeling of helplessness and despair at the state of the world.
What form of media: social media, news outlets, documentaries, or books, affects your understanding of race and racism the most?
- Social media, as it provides a platform for diverse voices and perspectives.
- News outlets, as they report on current events and highlight racial disparities.
- Documentaries, as they offer in-depth explorations of complex social issues.
- Books, as they provide historical context and critical analysis of race and racism.
What’s your idea of a just and equitable society?
- One where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive, regardless of their race or ethnicity.
- One where diversity is celebrated and all voices are heard.
- One where we acknowledge and address past wrongs while working towards a more just future.
- One where love, compassion, and understanding guide our interactions with one another.
What is your strongest belief about the power of education to combat racism and prejudice?
- I believe that education is the key to dismantling stereotypes and fostering empathy.
- I’m hopeful that future generations will be more informed and equipped to address these issues.
- I think that education alone is not enough, but it’s a crucial step in the right direction.
- I’m not sure how effective education can be in changing deeply ingrained beliefs.
How prepared do you feel to talk to your children or future children about race and racism?
- Very prepared – I’m ready to have these conversations early and often.
- Somewhat prepared – I’m still learning, but I’m committed to having these discussions.
- Not very prepared – I’m unsure how to approach these topics in an age-appropriate way.
- Not at all prepared – I’m avoiding this conversation for as long as possible.
What happens if a child in your life asks you a difficult question about race that you don’t know how to answer?
- I’d admit that I don’t know the answer but promise to research it together.
- I’d try my best to answer the question honestly and to the best of my ability.
- I’d deflect the question or change the subject to avoid an uncomfortable conversation.
- I’d panic and hope that someone else would step in to answer.
What do you think you need to develop a deeper understanding of the nuances of racial identity formation?
- More exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences.
- A willingness to confront my own biases and assumptions.
- Access to resources and information on race and racism.
- Guidance from mentors or educators who are knowledgeable about these topics.
How often do you actively seek out information or engage in activities that challenge your understanding of race and racism?
- Regularly – I make a conscious effort to stay informed and educated.
- Occasionally – I’ll read an article or watch a documentary every now and then.
- Rarely – It’s not something I actively seek out, but I’m open to learning more.
- Never – I’m not interested in confronting these issues or challenging my worldview.
How confident are you in your ability to identify and challenge instances of racism or prejudice in your own life?
- Very confident – I’m comfortable speaking up and taking action when I witness injustice.
- Somewhat confident – I’ll speak up if I feel safe doing so, but I often hesitate.
- Not very confident – I’m afraid of saying the wrong thing or making the situation worse.
- Not at all confident – I prefer to avoid conflict and don’t feel equipped to handle these situations.
How do you handle situations where you make a mistake or say something unintentionally hurtful related to race?
- I apologize sincerely, listen to the feedback of others, and try to learn from my mistakes.
- I get defensive and try to justify my actions or words.
- I feel embarrassed and ashamed, but I don’t know how to make amends.
- I ignore the situation and hope that it blows over.
Do you have conversations about race and racism at home, with your family or loved ones?
- Yes – We talk openly and honestly about these issues.
- Sometimes – These conversations happen occasionally, but not on a regular basis.
- Rarely – It’s a topic we tend to avoid.
- Never – We don’t discuss these matters.
How well do you stick to your convictions when it comes to challenging racism or prejudice, even when it’s difficult or uncomfortable?
- I always stand up for what I believe is right, even if it means having tough conversations.
- I try my best to challenge racism, but I’ll admit that I sometimes back down to avoid conflict.
- I struggle to find my voice in these situations and often choose silence over confrontation.
- I avoid these situations altogether, as I don’t want to rock the boat or make things awkward.
Which of the following is most accurate when it comes to your understanding of white privilege?
- I recognize that I benefit from white privilege, and I’m committed to using it to advocate for racial justice.
- I’m still learning about white privilege, but I understand that it’s a real and pervasive force in our society.
- I’m not sure that I fully understand white privilege, but I’m open to learning more.
- I don’t believe in white privilege – I think everyone has equal opportunities.
To what degree do you experience a sense of responsibility to address racism and discrimination, even when it doesn’t directly affect you?
- I feel a strong sense of responsibility to speak up and take action against injustice, regardless of who it affects.
- I believe it’s important to be an ally, but I’m still figuring out how to use my voice effectively.
- I care about these issues, but I don’t always feel equipped to make a difference.
- I don’t feel personally responsible for addressing these problems – it’s not my job to fix them.
Which of these best describes your current approach to learning about and addressing issues of race and racism: proactive, reactive, passive, or avoidant?
- Proactive – I actively seek out information, engage in critical reflection, and take action to promote racial justice.
- Reactive – I respond to events and situations as they arise, but I don’t always take initiative.
- Passive – I care about these issues, but I’m not doing much to actively address them.
- Avoidant – I prefer to avoid these uncomfortable topics and conversations.
What is your current biggest challenge when it comes to understanding or addressing issues of race and racism?
- Confronting my own biases and privilege.
- Finding my voice and speaking up against injustice.
- Educating myself about different cultures and experiences.
- Staying informed and engaged without feeling overwhelmed or hopeless.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the term “systemic racism”?
- A deeply ingrained system of oppression that disadvantages people of color in all areas of life.
- A complex and multifaceted issue that I’m still trying to fully understand.
- A controversial term that I’m not sure I agree with.
- A distraction from individual responsibility and accountability.
How do you handle disagreements or conflicts with others who hold different views on race and racism?
- I try to engage in respectful dialogue, listen to their perspectives, and find common ground.
- I get defensive and argumentative, trying to prove that my views are right.
- I shut down and avoid the conversation altogether.
- I try to educate the other person on why their views are wrong.
How would you describe your relationship to your own racial identity?
- I have a strong and positive sense of my racial identity.
- I’m still exploring and defining my racial identity.
- I don’t think much about my racial identity.
- I’m uncomfortable talking about my racial identity.
Are you stuck in any thought patterns or behaviors that you realize might be contributing to racial bias or prejudice?
- Yes – I’m actively working on identifying and unlearning these patterns.
- I’m sure I have biases that I’m not even aware of, but I’m open to feedback.
- I don’t think I’m biased – I treat everyone equally.
- It’s not my responsibility to analyze my thoughts and behaviors for bias.
What would you say are your top struggles right now when it comes to being actively anti-racist?
- Overcoming my own implicit biases.
- Speaking up against racism in my personal and professional life.
- Educating myself about the history and impact of systemic racism.
- Staying informed and engaged without experiencing burnout or compassion fatigue.
What is your personal goal when it comes to promoting racial equality and justice?
- To be an active and effective ally to marginalized communities.
- To raise awareness about racial injustice and inspire others to take action.
- To create positive change in my own sphere of influence.
- To live in a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
What do you think is missing in your life or community that would help you be a better advocate for racial justice?
- More opportunities for dialogue and engagement across racial lines.
- Access to resources and education on race and racism.
- Stronger relationships with people from different backgrounds.
- A greater sense of urgency and collective action.
What is your current level of expertise when it comes to understanding the historical context of race and racism?
- I have a deep understanding of the history of racial injustice.
- I’m knowledgeable about some aspects of racial history, but I have more to learn.
- I have a basic understanding of racial history, but I haven’t explored it in depth.
- I don’t know much about racial history.
A scenario arises where you witness a microaggression. How do you respond?
- I calmly address the microaggression and explain why it’s harmful.
- I call attention to the microaggression, even if it makes others uncomfortable.
- I let it slide, but I feel frustrated and powerless.
- I don’t even notice the microaggression.
What word best describes how you feel when you think about the state of race relations today: hopeful, discouraged, angry, or overwhelmed?
- Hopeful, because I believe in the power of collective action to create change.
- Discouraged, because it often feels like we’re not making progress.
- Angry, because racism and discrimination are still so prevalent.
- Overwhelmed, because it’s a complex and daunting issue to tackle.
Which of the following do you notice yourself worrying about on a day-to-day basis: experiencing racism personally, saying the wrong thing about race, not doing enough to combat racism, or raising children in a racist society?
- Experiencing racism personally, as I’m aware of the prevalence of discrimination.
- Saying the wrong thing about race, because I don’t want to offend anyone or appear ignorant.
- Not doing enough to combat racism, because I feel a sense of responsibility to take action.
- Raising children in a racist society, because I want to protect them from harm and teach them to be allies.
How aware and informed do you feel in your understanding of systemic racism and its impact on society?
- Very aware and informed – I make a conscious effort to educate myself.
- Moderately aware and informed – I have a general understanding, but I’m always learning.
- Somewhat aware and informed – I’m aware of the term, but I don’t fully grasp its complexities.
- Not very aware or informed – I don’t know much about systemic racism.
How well do you think you balance your commitment to social justice with self-care and avoiding burnout?
- I’m good at setting boundaries and prioritizing my well-being while still staying engaged.
- I struggle to find a balance and often experience compassion fatigue.
- I don’t think about self-care in the context of social justice – it’s not about me.
- I avoid engaging in social justice work because it’s too emotionally draining.
How connected do you feel to your own racial or ethnic background?
- Very connected – I embrace and celebrate my heritage.
- Somewhat connected – I’m still learning about and connecting with my roots.
- Not very connected – I don’t feel a strong sense of connection to my heritage.
- I don’t identify with any particular racial or ethnic group.
Which of the following is most likely to frustrate you: overt racism, microaggressions, systemic racism, or the slow pace of social progress?
- Overt racism, as it’s a blatant and unacceptable form of discrimination.
- Microaggressions, as they are subtle but insidious forms of bias.
- Systemic racism, as it’s a pervasive and deeply entrenched problem.
- The slow pace of social progress, as it can feel like we’re not making any headway.
What is the trickiest part about having productive conversations about race with family or friends?
- Navigating different perspectives and opinions without creating conflict.
- Addressing deeply ingrained biases and beliefs.
- Finding the right time and place to have these conversations.
- Knowing how to respond to resistance or pushback.
Do you tend to focus more on individual acts of racism or on addressing systemic racism?
- I believe it’s important to address both individual acts of racism and the systems that perpetuate them.
- I focus more on individual acts of racism, as they are easier to identify and address.
- I’m more interested in dismantling systemic racism, as it’s the root of the problem.
- I don’t focus on either – I think people should just treat each other with respect.
Do you have a support system in place for engaging in challenging conversations about race and racism, such as a trusted friend, family member, or therapist?
- Yes – I have people I can talk to who understand and support my commitment to racial justice.
- I’m working on building a support system, as I realize how important it is.
- I don’t have a support system in place, but I’m not sure I need one.
- I prefer to deal with these issues on my own.
How do you determine your level of engagement and activism each day, week, or month?
- I set realistic goals and prioritize self-care to avoid burnout.
- I engage based on my energy levels and emotional capacity that day.
- I don’t have a set plan – I engage when I feel inspired or outraged.
- I don’t actively engage in anti-racism work.
Are your personal efforts consistently contributing to positive change when it comes to racial equality?
- Yes – I’m confident that my actions are making a difference.
- I hope so – I’m trying my best to contribute to a more just world.
- I’m not sure – it’s hard to measure impact.
- I don’t know – I haven’t seen much progress.
How do you manage the emotional labor of being engaged in social justice work related to race and racism?
- I prioritize self-care, seek support from others, and celebrate small victories.
- I struggle to manage the emotional toll, and it often leads to burnout or avoidance.
- I don’t think about it as emotional labor – it’s just the right thing to do.
- I avoid engaging in this work because it’s too emotionally draining.