West Des Moines Workshop Will Focus On 'White Anti-Racism'

WEST DES MOINES, IA — A Drake University professor, author and lecturer will lead a workshop this month related to her soon-to-be-released book, “Raising White Kids: Bringing Up Children in a Racially Unjust America.” Dr. Jennifer Harvey says the conundrums of raising healthy white children in our society today is tough. She will address issues that parents face.

Harvey believes important public discussion exists in regard to the impact of race and racism on children of color, but good dialogue about and understanding the impact of race on white children is lacking. Some of the things she will address: Should we teach children to be “colorblind” or to notice race? What is the best way to talk about white privilege and real injustices? How do we teach about race honestly without making our children feel bad about being white?

The workshop is designed to foster dialogue. Harvey's work focuses on racial justice and white anti-racism. She also is the author of “Dear White Christians: For Those Still Longing for Racial Reconciliation.” Harvey also contributes to The New York Times and Huffington Post and is ordained in the American Baptist Churches (U.S.A.). She lives in Des Moines.

The program is free and will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Jan. 30 at the Learning Resource Center, 3550 Mills Civic Parkway.

Image via West Des Moines schools