The Richmond Pledge to End Racism monthly newsletter is an effort to help us maintain and build upon our pledge commitments.  We hope this newsletter is helpful, but know you can always update your subscription preferences.

This moment in our nation demands our attention.  We cannot ignore it and we cannot sit things out, even if the work that needs to be done feels so overwhelming. 

November 2020

4th Annual BLM Art Show Call for Artists

The mission of the show is to assemble a virtual collection of works from local and regional artists that intends to gather the community together to combat institutional racism, to champion racial justice, to promote spaces for the black imagination, and to celebrate black joy.

There are three major purposes for the show: Inclusivity is an important aspect of the show—meaning that artists of any race may submit work. Anti-racism is another aspect of the show. The message of the show is that this is the time to advocate for anti-racist policies, anti-racist educational initiatives, and police and legal reform centered around racial equality. Celebrating black joy is a third goal of the show. Too frequently, the black experience has been belittled, dismissed, and silenced. This show aims to celebrate black empowerment, resilience, and beauty. In short, this art show aims to honor all black lives, past and present, regardless of age, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, or identity by using the visual [and recorded] arts (dance, spoken word, music, etc). 

Learning Opportunities (Upcoming Events)

Racial Implications of the 2020 Elections

• Tuesday, November 10, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. EST
• Register Here for the webinar link

Tuesday was one of the most contentious and consequential elections in America's history. Certainly, this is not the way elections are supposed to occur in a nation that prides itself on the peaceful exchange of executive power and non-violent revolutions at the polls. Please join a distinguished panel for a "Just Talk/ Talk Just" biblical and theological conversation that will explore the outcome of the election and its implications for social justice, voter participation, and race relations in our nation.  Sponsored by the Center for Social Justice & Reconciliation (CSJR) and the Katie Geneva Cannon Center for Womanist Leadership at Union Presbyterian Seminary.

Racial Optics: The Science of Bias

• Friday, November 13, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. EST
• Saturday, November 14, 9:00 a.m. - Noon EST
• Cost: $65
• Register Here

Please join Richmond Hill in this 2-part workshop providing an eye-opening exploration into the power and impact of implicit bias, ways to counteract those biases, and the benefit of engaging with people of diverse cultures and experiences. The combination of examining truth and awakening empathy is created to activate courageous citizenship.

The workshop is facilitated by Suzanne Haley and Jacky McCoy, founders of Changing the Lens, a community-building movement with the goal of changing the view of race and racism in America.

Coming to the Table Movie Discussion: HEARD

• Monday, November 23, at 6:30 p.m. EST
• Email bsbrown33@aol.com to receive Zoom link

News reports of America's urban housing projects focus on violence, gangs, and drugs. To most Americans, public housing and urban poverty are "issues" that remain out of sight and out of mind. In HEARD, these issues take on local human faces. We'll get to know current and former residents of the City of Richmond housing projects and hear them tell their own compelling stories. We'll see how they're surviving and thriving in spite of and often because of the challenges they've had to overcome. 

The film will premiere on Thursday, November 12 at 9:00pm on VPM PBS. It will air again on Sunday, November 15, 2020 at 4:00pm.

Volunteer & Giving Opportunity 

For over 10 years, Podium RVA has provided safer and more supportive educational environments for students in Richmond, VA, and surrounding areas. By creating opportunities for young people to develop essential writing and communication skills, Podium aims to increase youth confidence and engagement, while supporting students in defining their own avenues for success.

As a Richmond-based non-profit organization, Podium depends upon the support of our community members. There are a number of ways to become involved with Podium, and every bit of support helps them continue to provide opportunities for Richmond youth.

• Donate
• Apply for an internship
• Become a volunteer

Pledge T-Shirts Now Available!

Back by popular demand, we are pleased to announce the availability of Pledge to End Racism t-shirts.  The shirts are printed on-demand by Que Tees Print Shop, a local Black-owned business.  Orders are processed through their website (where you will see other related products for other organizations) and shipped directly to you by the store.  Prices start at $12 for short sleeve, $13.75 for long sleeve (plus shipping and tax).

Start a conversation and promote the Pledge by wearing your Pledge to End Racism t-shirt.