Inspired by the model of Twelve Step and the work of Dr. Tema Okun, I present these steps to unlearning white supremacy culture (WSC). This is a confrontational, iterative, and liberating process that one must undergo at the speed of trust (thanks, amb).
I admit that white supremacy culture is an unconscious and oppressive force in my life.
I believe that with presence, curiosity, and critical self-inquiry I can unlearn white supremacy culture.
I decide to be discerning, courageous, accepting, and steadfast to interrogate the hold white supremacy culture has over me.
I inventory how white supremacy culture shows up in my life and how I have replicated it with my (in)actions in my relationships.
I admit that I have been complicit in upholding white supremacy culture and have chosen to perpetuate harm.
I am ready to imagine new thoughts, feelings, actions, and behaviors that actively disrupt white supremacy culture in my life.
I humbly engage in the process of unlearning white supremacy culture, understanding that it is cyclical, spiralic, and ongoing.
I make a list of all those I have harmed directly or indirectly by my perpetuation of harmful practices that upheld white supremacy culture.
I am willing to make direct amends and reparations to those I have harmed with white supremacy culture whenever possible.
I continue to take personal inventory and, when white supremacy culture resurfaces, promptly admit it then engage more deeply in these processes.
I experience the collective liberation from and abolition of white supremacy culture, and use my power and privilege to sustain that reality.
I practice collective liberation and abolition in personal, interpersonal, organizational, and cultural areas of my life knowing that all will benefit from freedom from white supremacy culture.
If you are interested in sharing this list, please cite your sources and respect the lineages.
Contact Carrie at the email below to engage in this work in community.