During this time of social unrest and cultural awakening, many people — historians, social scientists, celebrities, and other high-profile figures — are recommending collections of books, films, essays, podcasts, websites, and more that explore the lived experiences of Black Americans. These carefully curated lists examine racial tensions in this country, both past and present.
While these recommended resources are helpful and informative, they are best understood in context. To provide this frame of reference, the ABA Section of Labor and Employment Law has issued a challenge, The 21-Day Racial Equity Habit-Building Challenge. Diversity expert Eddie Moore, Jr. formulated the idea for this Challenge “to advance deeper understandings of the intersections of race, power, privilege, supremacy and oppression.” It consists of 21 assignments that examine elements of Black history, identity and culture, and the Black community’s experience of racism in America. It is designed to “assist each of us to become more aware, compassionate, constructive, engaged people in the quest for racial equity.”
The Challenge officially began on June 17, 2020, but the syllabus is posted on the ABA website and openly accessible to the public at any time. Anyone who is interested is encouraged to explore. If you wish to be recognized for participating in the challenge, please send a message to the LEL Section office. Your name will added to a roster of colleagues also taking part.