Overture

Racial equity is a priority topic of discussion at the heart of many conversations and roundtables in our world today; in particular, the United States of America. To best understand R the issues surrounding this topic, requires answering a myriad of questions that need to be answered. How can racial equity best be understood by those have had the advantage of living in a country where sections of the population have enjoyed the benefits of centuries of socioeconomic advantages, at the expense of others? Is it even possible to balance the scales of inequity? How can racial equity best be understood by those with a sincere desire to reverse these effects, and become immersed in the journey of achieving racial equity? First, let us define the term Racial Equity: According to the organization Race Forward, the meaning of racial equity is the

process of eliminating racial disparities and improving outcomes for everyone. It is the intentional and continual practice of changing policies, practices, systems, and structures by prioritizing measurable change in the lives of people of color. Second, let us define the term Operationalize: According to Marriam-Webster Dictionary, the meaning of operationalize, or operationalization, whether in research design, especially in psychology, social sciences, life sciences and physics, is a process of defining the measurement of a phenomenon that is not directly measurable, though its existence is inferred by other phenomena. These two words are very powerful and form the basis of the dialogue we will put forth in the following pages. It is our desire that you read with an open mind and heart. We never know when the corridors of our minds will be illuminated with new thoughts and ideas. Be prepared to embrace an understanding that could only come from changing your position, in order to change your perception. Our hope is that the questions you may have and more, will be answered in the forthcoming pages of this essay and workbook. There are presented as solutions, that when implemented, could very well achieve the desired outcome of a world committed to achieving socio-economic sustainability for communities of color.

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that…

… Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

- M.L. King, Jr.