How Living the Principles of Kwanzaa Fights Racism

Phyliss Williams co-host of Living the Principles podcast joins Simma to talk about the importance of the principles of Kwanzaa, and how her time in the Marines impacts the good work she does today. Phyliss shares stories and experiences as an African American woman growing up in the south dealing with racism, and what it's like to see the racism today across the USA We talk about the importance of involving family and friends in the race conversation, and having an impact on them. Topics covered: Why it's essential that people vote Selfish reasons why people don't vote and not voting is a vote against equal rights Tactics used today to repress voting particularly in Black neighborhoods Parallels between the past and the present in preventing people from voting During her time attending a Christian College, she experienced racist dog whistles from other students and racism goes against all the principles of Christianity How the Trump administration continues to dehumanize Black people and other people of color, Jewish people, LGBT People and immigrants   What we can do to have the conversation about race, eliminate hate and fear of differences and spread love Be mindful of our energy, share resources and support each other Remember that the holocaust happened because "nice" people said nothing Speak out against gerrymandering which will impact the results of our voting Speak up when people are told "go back to your country" Listen to the stories of Black people and their experiences with racism, police brutality Check assumptions and generalizations Think about how different forms of privilege or automatic advantages impact us Dismantle stereotypes