A White Man's Journey to Healing Racism
- Bob Gatty
- Jul 22, 2024
- 3 min read
In today's installment of the Lean to the Left podcast,we take a deep dive into the pervasive issue of racism in America—a lingering scourge despite progress over the years.
With J.D. Mass, author of the thought-provoking book Race for What? A White Man's Guide to Healing Racism from Within, we explore J.D.’s personal journey, the societal necessity of understanding racism, and practical steps to heal racial divides.
The Awakening of J.D. Mass
Raised in a diverse community in St. Louis, J.D. was exposed to the stark realities of racial discrimination from a young age as his family moved to a mixed race community deliberately to broaden his understanding of the world around him.
His interactions within the black community fostered a profound curiosity about the roots of bigotry and racism. It was a move that shaped his worldview and friendships profoundly. Despite lacking explicit reasoning for their actions, J.D.’s parents' principles of equality and understanding laid a solid foundation for his lifelong dedication to racial justice.
The transformative connections continued through his school years, where J.D. experienced both the warmth of the black community and the harsh contrasts of discrimination. These experiences fueled his sense of purpose, eventually propelling him on a journey to become an anti-racism advocate and author.
With a doctorate in organizational psychology, J.D. deepened his involvement in anti-racism groups, drawing inspiration for his book from a pivotal encounter with a black activist who challenged him to identify steps to healing racism.
Influence of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
In third grade, learning about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was an eye-opener for J.D., who couldn’t grasp why King’s advocacy for equality was not universally obvious.
This realization—that not everyone shared the same values of love, peace, and community—further solidified J.D.’s commitment to racial justice.
J.D.’s career trajectory included working with the popular artist Nelly and later collaborating with the African Hebrew Israelite community in Israel. These experiences exposed him to the systemic and cultural practices that perpetuate racial disparities. They also taught him the importance of intentional community-building and the necessity of an anti-racist mindset.
Seven Steps to Healing Racism
J.D. outlines the seven transformative steps detailed in his book to guide white individuals in healing racism from within:
1. Don't Move: Seek Understanding
Before attempting to fix racial issues, one must understand the underlying reasons behind racism. This involves learning about the historical and systemic roots of racial injustice.
2. Acknowledge the Harmful Culture
Recognize and confront the deep-seated cultural practices contributing to systemic racism, extending beyond anti-blackness to other areas of discrimination and cultural divisiveness.
3. Let Go of Privilege and Power
Releasing the quest for control and privilege allows for a more inclusive approach conducive to genuine healing and cooperation.
4. Appreciate Other Cultures
Valuing the contributions and resilience of other cultures fosters respect and understanding, essential for cross-cultural solidarity.
5. Repair the Harm
Actively engage in reparative actions that acknowledge historical injustices and promote equity.
6. Learn a New Mind
Embrace a mindset focused on collaboration, community-building, and mutual support rather than competition and control.
7. Manifest Humanity
By implementing these steps, one can help build a culture of empathy, respect, and shared humanity.
Political Reflections and Moving Forward
J.D. and Bob further discuss the contemporary political landscape, examining how racism influences today’s political discourse and decisions. They underscore the importance of inclusive leadership and the need for intentional healing to bridge the deep-seated divides in society.
J.D. shares his endeavors, including his thought-provoking podcast, Same Difference, co-hosted with Kory May. This initiative continues the conversation on race, power dynamics, and personal experiences, inviting listeners into a journey of mutual understanding.
Get Involved and Learn More
Racism’s persistence demands unrelenting effort and personal commitment to understanding, healing, and advocacy. J.D. Mass’s journey, insights, and steps offer a transformative guide for individuals seeking to address racial injustice and foster a more inclusive society.
To delve deeper into the insights and practical steps J.D. Mass offers, check out his book, Race for What? A White Man's Guide to Healing Racism from Within. Connect with him through his website, raceforwhat.com, and explore his podcast, Same Difference, for enriching conversations on race and personal growth.
View the podcast: https://youtu.be/MMNFse0fWzs
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