Author, social worker, educational consultant, and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) trainer Dr. Darlene Sampson believes that right now, you can be changed for the better by listening to this podcast.  Host Rebeccah Silence wants to know what can those who enjoy skin color privilege do to be true allies to those who experience racism?  Because, for our fellow human beings who do suffer from racial discrimination, it’s exhausting. 

As a Black woman Darlene knows how hurtful it can be to feel ‘invisible’ and she assists her clients in using empathy to break through false narratives on all forms of discrimination.  But, in DEI work, breakthrough can be scary.  Allyship can be costly so it’s important to know the risks.  For example, are you willing to call out a microaggression, say a racially charged comment or joke, on the job or online? 

So where can we start?  By getting to know people who aren’t like us.  Who in your world doesn’t look, think and act like you?  Who did you learn as a child was bad and who was good?  Darlene says, “When we don’t know each other, that’s when we don’t care for each other.”  Therefore, it’s essential to seek opportunities to build relationships with people who are different from you.  And to be honest with yourself about how uncomfortable it may make you feel.  Knowing your biases is an important first step. 

If you have privilege, recognize it and use it for good.  Let curiosity be your guide.  If someone tells you a story of the impact of racism in their lives, believe them; don’t minimize.  Instead, ask to hear more.  We can strengthen our empathic muscles by extending love and kindness to those who may not look like us, but who share our common human experience, and that makes us all more alike than we might think. 

A powerful and conscious-raising conversation, Rebeccah and Darlene get to the heart of the matter and discuss ideas for taking action to build a better world and to eliminate racism and intolerance.  Don’t beat yourself us; wake up.  What can you do today that says you care? 

To learn more about Dr. Darlene Sampson check out https://darlenesampson.com/.  We’re always Tougher Together! Please tune in to other episodes of our Breakthrough podcast and explore the human connection between us.  

Rebeccah Silence, is a speaker, coach and international media personality, who survived cancer while pregnant and has impacted hundreds of thousands of listeners through her radio programs and appearances.  She is the Creator of the HEALING IS POSSIBLE movement and courses and is committed to helping others heal their traumas.  As a certified world-class Emotional Healing Coach, Rebeccah is uniquely qualified to facilitate breakthroughs to wellness and transformation while she inspires hope and possibility in even the most challenging times. She is best known for healing heartbreak, and her clients frequently tell her that she brought them “back to life”!  www.rebeccahsilence.com 

To learn more about all our inspiring podcasts visit https://www.lifestough.com/.