It’s Me. I’m the Problem: The Role of Personal Reflection in Antiracism Work

Event Details

In our pursuit of racial equity, we tend to prioritize white benevolence towards non-white communities reinforcing existing power structures and failing to challenge harmful societal norms. Achieving true equity requires recognizing that our current ideas of “normal” are harmful and learning how these beliefs shape all aspects of our society. We can combat this by engaging in personal reflection, challenging both internal and external false beliefs, centering marginalized voices, and committing ourselves to discover a new way forward. This presentation emphasizes the importance of personal reflection in our equity efforts.

Marian University will host its sixth annual Transformational Leadership Conference this spring on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, January 15, 2024. We invite all students, staff, faculty, and community members to participate in this exciting, transformative experience. The overarching theme for this year’s service and leadership conference is Dare to Confront. The theme “Dare To Confront” invites individuals on a journey to courageously engage with challenging situations, difficult conversations and uncomfortable truths. It emphasizes the importance of building our capacity to listen and ask questions curiously, speak inarguably, fail publicly yet learn to navigate future complex issues.

Charla Cannon Yearwood (she/her) is a licensed clinical social worker committed to anti-racism in mental health. She is the Founder & CEO of Connected in Community, an Indy-based therapy practice focused on providing inclusive mental healthcare. Charla also co-developed and facilitates a Racial Justice and Liberatory Practice continuing education series at Columbia University. Outside work, Charla and her family of two kids, a dog, and a cat enjoy all things, Disney.