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Five Saturdays beginning March 13, 2021

Beginning this spring, AYF’s Summer Seminars for Women will offer a series of small group conversation circles. Using The Circle Way, a process developed by a group of educators, we will offer a space for connection and learning through Zoom meetings. In March, we begin the series with the book Me and White Supremacy by Layla Saad, a text that challenges readers to develop a deeper understanding how racism is present in our lives and society.

Participants will work sequentially through the book over the course of four biweekly sessions that include journaling, reflection, and conversation. The book selection comes from the coordinators of AYF’s Summer Seminars for Women, and it is aimed at those open to reflection and honest learning about how white members of society benefit from privilege in ways that cause damage to Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC). The process of The Circle Way conversation is one way the author recommends people interact with the book — using a journal for reflection, gathering in small groups, and rotating group leadership to invite all to share equally in the learning.

In the foreword, Robin DiAngelo writes, “Me and White Supremacy is an extraordinary new resource for white people willing to align what they profess to value (racial equality) with their actual practice (anti-racist action). In a clear and accessible way, Saad has answered the question. Now each time I’m asked, ‘what do I do?’ my answer will include ‘work through this book.'” Within the AYF community, we are committed to putting our values into action, and this book offers a roadmap to constructively guide readers through learning what they can do to further racial justice.

These sessions are open to anyone interested in being part of the Summer Seminars for Women community. Previous experience with SSW is not required and first-time participants are welcome.

Session dates: March 13, March 27, April 10, April 24 and wrap up on May 8, all from 10 to 11:30 a.m. EST.

Facilitator: Liz Marshall and rotating group leadership

Time commitment: Biweekly reading assignments, journal work and conversation (Approximately 90 minutes preparation for each session).

Registration: While not required, we invite you to register ahead on Canvas (click here) and Zoom links will be provided there

Questions? Reach out to AYF Senior Director of Advancement, Liz Marshall at lmarshall@ayf.com