How Can Yoga Translate to Anti-Racism Work?
In meditation, yoga, and in other modalities of self-work, we practice developing RESILIENCE because it keeps us in line with our highest principles throughout any degree of discomfort. We remain seated in meditation despite wanting to move around, and we hold space to witness our most difficult emotions. We must also use this tool to be anti-racists.
It’s hard to fathom yourself as a contributor to the pain and suffering of others. That’s why we can lash out or act indifferently when confronted with racism.
How often do we say, “No, I don’t do that. And if I ever saw someone do that, I would say something?” I am a white woman, and I have heard those sentiments a lot. I have even felt them myself.
This is defensiveness, and it is not enough.
Resilience will enable us to ask ourselves the tough questions, turn our attention inward, and gain greater understanding of our role in the world.
Resilience will move us to study challenging texts, participate in anti-racist initiatives, and support others.
Resilience will allow us to accept the fact that we are not the saviours in this scenario, but simple humans who have complicated experiences.
Resilience will motivate us to stand with others physically in protest, or financially in movements.
Resilience will align us with our greatest potential to do no harm.
Tamu McPherson’s article on alltheprettybirds.com inspired these self-reflection questions, which I hope can be positive tools in our anti-racism work. Please try them out for yourself when and if you are ready:
When did I slip on the cloak of white privilege? When has it served me?
Am I okay propping up a system that consistently fails black men and women?
How are the architects and champions of white supremacy able to use me as a pawn in their game?
Thank you to everyone in this community for encouraging each other to be their best selves. It is important to recognize that anti-racism is likely not an easy destination that you arrive at from one act. Rather, anti-racism is a practice, like yoga, that requires daily dedication and unflinching vigilance. If you stumble on your yoga practice, you acknowledge it. So if you stumble in your anti-racism work, please acknowledge it.
If at any point I write or say or do something that makes you feel uncomfortable, or that you think is a blind spot for me, I want you to please feel comfortable to let me know. You can leave an anonymous comment, or email me privately. As a white woman who has lived her whole life benefiting from white supremacy, I know that I have so much to learn and so much wrong-doing to confront.
Sincerely yours,