Many are distraught, angry, or confused by the jury ruling in the Trayvon Martin case. As thousands of citizens around the country deal with this ruling, we too must examine the impact of Trayvon Martin’s death, and the trial that followed. At the Inclusion Center, we believe that prejudice affects us all. People of all races are influenced by racial stereotypes, messages promulgated through out the media, and stories we are told growing up. The work of dismantling racial stereotypes and judgements are a constant challenge but necessary when addressing human relations. After all, we cannot separate ourselves from the world we live in.

Trayvon’s death has brought the issue of race relations to the forefront of many Americans minds’. Unfortunately, racism still exists,  and there is no quick fix that offers a sustainable resolution. In order to combat prejudice, fear, and misunderstanding, we must openly and honestly discuss how racism (historical and present day) affects our communities and nation. These conversations can also permit us to examine policies and institutional practices that are unfair and/or unjust. It is a process that has to be nonviolent, inclusive and empowering.

In many workshops hosted by the Inclusion Center, we witness individuals who are so unfamiliar with honest dialogue, that even broaching the topic of racial prejudice is extremely difficult. And often, it is around this subject that participants become nervous or hesitant to share openly. But we have found, time after time, that once someone breaks the ice with an honest, authentic remark, the conversation blooms. Though it is easy to mis-step and offend another, come off more harshly than intended, or be carried away by emotions, we work with our participants to address the intentions of their remarks, and to learn from hurtful mistakes. With time and investment from all participants, our workshops result in closer, more caring communities. By being able to share honestly with courage, and listen fully, we can gain a deeper appreciation of our relationships.
The Inclusion Center has an open-door policy. If you are looking for a place to explore the complexities of the Trayvon Martin Case, or if you would like to have the Inclusion Center facilitate a conversation with a group that you are working with, please contact us.