Half-Way Though the Book
I am reading about Me and White Supremacy, Combat Racism, Change the World, and Become a Good Ancestor. Today is the 17th of February. So I’m more than halfway finished. (In case you missed prior posts, this is number 4.)
Black Lives Matter
It is definitely getting more intense. Yesterday for example I was asked to reflect on the question, “When you see [white centering], will you choose to intentionally disrupt it, or will you turn toward the warm comfort of white apathy?”
This is difficult! I don’t see white centering often, but when I do, it is tempting to accept it. After all, do I have the will or fortitude to deflect it? Why not just let it go?
But there is a reason to intentionally disrupt it; it lies in why I will object to it. Even when I hesitate, my side says go ahead!
Why? Because it is wrong!
Other Questions
Then comes this question: “How is your worldview a white-centered one?”
I did a little research into this question about books. In 2018, the number of books published by women of color was about sufficient. But the books read by children was way under! In fact, in 2018 the books by people of color was miniscule and in one publication, did not exist at all!
“Essay, poetry and art all co-exist in this experimental book about the micro-aggressions victims of racism feel in everyday life and in the media. The compelling essay discussing the treatment of Serena Williams — on court, in the media — is worth the cost of the book alone,” says the author.
Remember Serena Williams when she dissed the chair umpire (not the right word!) combating her behavior? It is a classic.
And the question that comes at me, “What are you beginning to understand about how white centering affects BIPOC?” (BIPOC is the acronym for Black and Indigenous People of Color.)
Yes, I do see this. It is totally wrong!
I can see the misfiring by my holding on to white centering. White centering is my way of being in command. It is me, speaking up, when I have the full attention of people around me. It is also my seeking for attention when I don’t want to let go.
Why not allow others to take over and be in charge?
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, New Leader for the WTO
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala
Ambassador John Campbell praises the new well-regarded leader of the WTO. He lauds her ascension to this position.
She was opposed by the Trump presidency. The previous U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said she had held some “development” roles.
Now that the former president is gone, her candidacy has been brought forward. The South Korean Trade Minister withdrew her candidacy after meeting with people from the Biden administration.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala has held the number 2 position at the bank. And now she is in charge!
She says her high priority will be to “promote and facilitate the enhanced distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and protective equipment.” This is in line with her work at GAVI where she is board chair, also promoting the use of vaccines.
Like others in Nigeria and here, I wish her well.
