One of our most honest and impactful Community Conversations was the one we hosted on November 3, 2021 on How to be an Ally.
We often hear people say, “I’d like to get involved with diversity and equity work but I don’t have time to be on a committee.” Well, the “work” happens every day and we can all play a part – whether it’s in a PTO or Book Club meeting, conversation with friends or family, at the ball field, or on social media.
An ‘ally’ is someone who chooses to stand with and for individuals or groups who do not come from the same place of privilege. Being an ally means listening, learning, speaking up, showing up, and learning from your mistakes.
Our conversation about allyship with five smart, thoughtful area professionals was inspiring and eye-opening.
We are deeply grateful to them for their candor, vulnerability and passion for social justice ─ and their willingness to spend an evening with us!
Rev. Dr. Shelley D. Best, President & CEO, The Conference of Churches/The 224 EcoSpace
John Dankosky, Director of News and Radio Projects at Science Friday
Melinda Johnson, Director, Community Engagement & Advocacy, YWCA Hartford Region
Bonnie Malley, Vice President for Finance and Administration, Hartford Foundation for Public Giving
Anita Ford Saunders, APR, Co-chair, Public Relations Society of America Diversity & Inclusion Committee
Here are links to other resources shared by the panelists:
Critical Race Theory conversation
CT Mirror articles on housing segregation
The Sum of Us, by Heather McGhee
