It’s a trope that is common because unfortunately, so many of us can relate to it.
So many of us have seen family members consistently do or say racist things.
We’ve broken down how to go about dealing with this difficult topic.
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Read on to learn what to do if a family member of yours is racist or exhibits racist actions.
The following tips will help you process what happened and decide what you want to do about it.
Don’t let that detract you from this!
There is simply nothing wrong with being uncomfortable.
However, you’ll be best served if you’re prepared for it.
Getting comfortable with being uncomfortable is important for any throw in of growth, change, or healing.
It’s important for the person exhibiting racist behaviors, too.
If we avoid discomfort, we avoid repair and growth.
This will allow us to do things differently and see different results in the future.
That means that it isn’t probable that they will just change their mind suddenly.
Know this and be clear about it before you approach them.
Go into the conversation with curiosity instead of specific expectations.
We all need tofight racism with regularity, and that won’t be stopping soon.
A loved one who behaves in a racist manner is no different.
Remember, though, it’s essential to “connect before you correct.”
Be Empathetic
We all feel our best when we feel understood by others.
And feeling that can also make us more open to change, too.
so that get the best results from talking to a loved one about their racism, come from anempatheticplace.
Imagine yourself in your loved one’s shoes.
Approach them with curiosity.
How have they come to believe what they believe?
Assuming that a person’s intent is harmful is not helpful.
Ask questionsabout your loved one’s actions and sentiments, rather than simply telling them they’re racist.
Operate from a place of curiosity, where you genuinely want tounderstand their perspective.
Don’t Advise
One thing that can be off-putting for many people is being givenunsolicited advice.
Remember, racism works on a spectrum.
you could view yourself and your loved one as being on this journey together.
Whether the conversation goes well or poorly, you’re in this for the long haul.
It’s possible for both of these to coexist together.
However, sometimes that just isn’t the case.
In that situation, you have the following options.
You are free to choose what behaviors are outside your comfort zone.
In this instance, you have every right tolimit engagement with someone.
Be clear and straightforward about why you are limiting contact.
This is an individual decision, and it’s not right or wrong morally.
In these situations, you may choose to just ignore their racist behavior when it continues after your talk.
This isn’t an ideal outcome, and understand that this may be taxing to your mental health.
you could considerseeing a therapistif you need help managing your feelings.
Pew Research Center.Race in America 2019.
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National Museum of African American History and Culture.Historical foundations of race.
