Through being a part of this workshop, I have become more aware of the issues of racism in our country, as well as within myself, and the absolute need to become antiracist in order for our country to heal. In sharing her knowledge, experiences, and resources, Anita provided us with a safe place in which to examine and acknowledge our own thoughts and feelings, and in turn, shared hers. One comes away from the workshop realizing this exploring of our country’s real history and its effects must be recognized and acknowledged. In conclusion Anita challenged us to establish our own goals and plans to work toward antiracism individually and collectively. I highly recommend the participation in this workshop as Anita provides an outstanding opportunity for valued discussions.
JUDITH TRAISTER
OMA MEMBER
Attending Anita’s workshop was a life changer for me. I realized while attending the sessions and reading the powerful resource material provided, that just saying I am anti racist is not being anti racist. I learned so much about the history of black people and how racist beliefs and structures are pervasive in all aspects of out lives from education to housing to health care, and how institutional policies were developed over time to support racism. I learned how being quiet and living the life of a privileged white woman is not helping my black family members and black friends. I need to be more active in their lives and help tear down those beliefs and structures and support policy change. I need to speak up and openly support them, and since attending Anita’s workshops, I have. I was also so impressed with how Anita spoke and lead our discussions. She didn’t present with anger or resentment or judgement. She spoke with kindness, understanding, confidence, and grace. You are truly a remarkable person Anita and I appreciate you.
JOANNE RILEY
OMA Board Member
Participating in Anita’s training helped me re-clarify my commitment to an anti-racist path. She guided our training group deep into traditionally overlooked U.S. history, past and present, and gave each of us space to connect with one another, share experiences, and reflect. Anita expertly achieves a balance between educating on the hard truth of our country’s race dynamics while simultaneously creating a supportive environment in which to connect, share, and learn. Thank you, Anita!
SUSAN GRUBB
OMA MEMBER
I am so glad I took this training with Anita. I much more fully understand the struggles black people have experienced over the years in a way I didn’t before taking this class. Anita talks about wanting the world to be a better, a safer place for her grandson. A world where he won’t have to protest. I want that for him too. So what can I do? I can make a beginning by ‘seeing’ black people rather than pretending they aren’t there. I mean actually making eye contact, saying hello and having conversations. I can notice my racist thinking when it pops up, acknowledge it and decide to change. I must do this and change... for Anita’s grandson.
SUSAN WIND
OMA Member
I am honored to serve on the board of directors for OMA with Anita and I am so grateful to have attended her program on Antiracism. Her brilliance, compassion and gifts of guiding/teaching and leading others opened pathways for participants ( including myself) to explore, uncover and work through their own issues to enable growth and transformation in being antiracist. We have all experienced many storms and I am grateful for this opportunity in remembering the truth she so eloquently and compassionately speaks. I am amazed at her ability to guide each of us to work through our own layers of generational racism to be mindful and present to the different choices we can make each day fueled by truth and awareness. Thank you from the depth of my heart and soul for the gift of you, your wisdom, your teachings, and your compassion. It is beyond the time for everyone to look deep within and begin their own journey of transformation and healing and stepping into ownership of the choices we all can make to live each moment as an antiracist person and remember our collective humanity.
GAIL HUNTER
OMA BOARD PRESIDENT
I woke up this morning anticipating another inspirational discussion on my journey toward antiracism and realized that our workshop was over, but my transformation was just beginning. This transformational journey will be ingrained in my head, heart and soul as my realization today is the recognition of the work ahead of me. I was ready and willing to begin the work of antiracism but Anita Russell was the spark and guide. Anita's approach for this workshop was one that provided accurate information and resources, sensitivity training and support as she gently, yet directly challenged some of my ingrained beliefs. She provided a safe space for me and other members of the group for this self exploration. I loved Anita's theme throughout the eight weeks which was we each need to take personal responsibility about what happens next and decide own our role in the goal of antiracism. I was able to feel comfortable and challenged due to Anita's experiential approach, her skill, training and engaging leadership. I am a fan!
SHELLEY HIEGEL
OMA MEMBER
