Living the Pledge Workshop

UUCR and Williams Memorial Baptist Church have since 2019 held a series of workshops, some in-person and some virtual, that have welcomed participants from our own congregations plus a growing group of other local congregations and faith traditions. We continue to work to expand the Roanoke Living the Pledge to End Racism Initiative to others in our community.

This 12-hour workshop is designed to make the National Pledge to End Racism something that becomes an integral part of our daily lives. It includes large and small group sessions led by trained leaders/facilitators on topics including recognizing and confronting bias, speaking up, structural and institutional racism, the movement for Black lives, and personal commitment to ending racism. Its primary goal is to help participants develop confidence in their ability to:

  • Integrate the Pledge to End Racism into their lives
  • Confront racism and bias in everyday encounters
  • Recognize and challenge systemic racism
  • Take personal leadership in ending racism in their community

In workshop sessions, signers of the Pledge reflect, learn, and practice how to develop and maintain their commitment. As part of the workshop, participants develop a community of support and an understanding of how to use that support in deepening their work in building a just and equitable multicultural world.

Who is this workshop for?

This workshop is for people who want to deepen their understanding of and commitment to anti-racism. It is suitable for adults and high-school aged teens, regardless of their prior experience, if any, with anti-racism work.

What is the workshop format?

The Living the Pledge Workshop is conducted in-person or virtually via Zoom. All sessions include presentations, videos, and small group discussions with trained facilitators. Before each session, participants are provided with links to articles and short videos which will help them prepare for the discussion. After each session, additional resources are provided for those who wish to explore the session’s topic more deeply on their own.

Questions?
For more information or questions, please e-mail us at roanokepledge@gmail.com.