Our next book discussion on How to be an Antiracist by Ibram X Kendi is being led by Margaret Wheeler. Margaret is well-regarded as an international support services lawyer and works at UW-Whitewater. She is excited about facilitating discussions pertaining to race and racism through a legal and social lens.

According to Kendi, “The only way to undo racism is to consistently identify and describe it – and then dismantle it.” Kendi utilizes a combination of ethics, history, law, and science with his own personal story of awakening to antiracism. The book is an essential work for anyone who wants to go beyond the awareness of racism to the next step: contributing to the formation of a just and equitable society.

Books may be obtained through the Irvin L. Young Memorial Library or the Book Teller (262-269-9109).

The first session was held at the pavilion at Trippe Lake Park on July 12, 2022. The second session will be at Deb Gamble's house near Whitewater Lake on Tue., Aug. 16, from 6-8 p.m.  If the weather is favorable, we will meet outside. We will be discussing Chapters 10–18.  Participants may bring an appetizer if they would like.  

Please contact Deb Gamble (262-458-0077) or shebagam [at] gmail.com) with questions or for directions to her house. 

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS DISCUSSION GUIDELINES

1. Respect confidentiality.
2. Be authentic and welcome that from others.  Share what is important to you.  Speak from your experience. Be considerate of others who are doing the same.
3. Show respect and suspend judgment.  People tend to judge one another. Setting judgment aside opens you up to learning.
4. Try truly listening, without interruption or crosstalk. If you are not sure about what someone said, ask them to repeat or clarify.  Be patient as not everyone communicates the same.  Nonverbal communication, even over Zoom, is important.
5. Be curious and actively listen to understand.  Conversation is as much about listening as it is about talking. You might enjoy exploring how others’ experiences have shaped their values and perspectives.
6. Note any common ground as well as any differences.  Look for areas of agreement or shared values that may arise and take an interest in the differing beliefs and opinions of others.
7. Be purposeful and to the point.  Do your best to keep your comments concise and relevant to the question you are answering. Be conscious of sharing airtime with other participants.
8. Own and guide the conversation.  Take responsibility for the quality of your participation.  Be proactive in getting yourself and others back on track if needed. 

The LWV Book Club was formed to help our Whitewater members and friends explore the League's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policy through meaningful discussions of current notable books dealing with public policy issues of interest to the League. You do not need to be a member of the League to participate.