Race and inequity

I am so happy that the PG Adult School is offering a class based on the book, “Combined Destinies, Whites Sharing Grief About Racism.” The book and this class provide a space for white people to look at, talk about, and break through many of the harmful misconceptions that we have all been taught about race and inequity. And while shame and guilt may be a few of the stumbling blocks we face along the way, they are distractions that keep us from dealing with the grief of separation, of not seeing our connections to one another. Thankfully, the work that

Ann Jealous and Caroline Haskell do goes much deeper. Their focus is on uplifting everyone so that we can truly build a beloved community where hope and joy reside.

In Isabel Wilkerson's book, “Caste,” she points out that our system is much like an old house in need of repair. When the roof is leaky, there is no point on wasting time looking for blame, or feeling guilt. Yes, we did not build this house, but we live here now and there is work to be done. Our society is wrought with way too many injustices and inequities. And no matter whether you personally are a “have” or “have not,” when our brothers and sisters are hurting, it diminishes us all.

We have been taught to avoid conversations about race, religion, politics, any topic considered too volatile for public discourse. And look where that has gotten us. I applaud Ann Jealous, Caroline Haskell and all others who step forward to bridge these gaps, to highlight our commonalities and guide us through these much needed conversations. We are all better for it. — JT Mason, Carmel

Last month, I was at the PG Adult School for Ann Jealous and Caroline Haskell's class “On the Road to Hope & Joy: A Workshop,” based on their book “Combined Destinies.” Students are asked to read the book and explore their own experiences by answering questions posed by the reader's guide at the end of the book.

This class is based in psychology and is an exceptional opportunity to address issues such as guilt, shame, separation, and silence. Students engage in interactive discussions, telling their own stories and experiences of being hurt by institutional and systemic racism. Skills to deal with their feelings are taught, and past wounds are healed because of these much-needed conversations.

I am an artist and member of Caste Action Alliance, whose mission is to rise up for social and restorative justice. I displayed and talked about my paintings which address matters of racism, history, inclusion, and diversity.

Empathy and Compassion were concepts discussed at the meeting I attended. I empathize with those who are not open to classes such as these. It is sometimes challenging, but worth it. I have compassion for those who are disruptive and disrespectful. May they seek the road to hope and joy. — Pam Bonsper, Carmel Valley