8.8: My Journey: Resisting White Supremacy Culture and Finding Joy
Y’all, I’m gettin’ REAL in this episode. We always talk about how anti-racism is a journey not a destination, and it’s so important to take time to reflect on that journey. So in today’s episode, I’m sharing part of my journey with you! You may have heard of the Characteristics of White Supremacy Culture developed by Tema Okun. She is a white woman who has been doing DEI work for more than 30 years, and she developed this list of 15 characteristics of white supremacy culture in the early 1990s, but the list has sort of been revived since 2020. In this episode, I share the 15 characteristics and more about where they came from but I really zero in on two of them — perfectionism and a sense of urgency — to talk about how I’ve seen them playing out in my own life and use them as a reflection tool. None of us is immune to white supremacy culture, and I’m no exception. I hope hearing me talk about my own journey gives you the chance to reflect on where you are in your anti-racism journey, including how far you’ve come and where you still want to go. Invite Jasmine to work with your school! Are you a parent or teacher who wants to help your school turn good intentions into positive action by making anti-racist education a priority? First Name Basis is here to help! Jasmine Bradshaw, the host and founder of the First Name Basis Podcast, is an anti-racist educator and former second-grade teacher who has a passion for helping schools make real change. Whether you’re looking for a keynote speaker at your next PTA event, want to implement our Ally Elementary curriculum at your school, or need someone to consult with your school and provide teacher trainings, Jasmine is your go-to resource. Email hello@firstnamebasis.org or visit firstnamebasis.org/workwithme for more information! Get your Little Allies Activity Book If you’re looking for activities for your kids or students to do that are both fun and meaningful, we’ve got something for you! Our Little Allies Activity Book is now available! It’s basically a coloring book that is focused on allyship, and all the activities are based around anti-racism. The Little Allies Activity Book includes: Color by number Protest I Spy Dot to dot Anti-racist word search Black history unscramble And more! Get your hands on it today by heading to firstnamebasis.org/store! Articles, Studies, & Podcasts Referenced in the Episode White Supremacy Culture by Tema Okun One Right Way Along with Perfectionism, Paternalism, and Objectivity by Tema Okun Sense of Urgency by Tema Okun “Tema Okun on Her Mythical Paper on White Supremacy,” Deconstructed Podcast Bevelyn Afor Ukah Song Credit: “Clapping Music” by BrightestAvenue and “Sunshine” by lemonmusicstudio