Our online Improving Race Relations: Having Tough Conversations was created to increase one's ability to have more meaningful and fruitful tough and difficult conversations concerning race relations. In the wake of global cries of racial injustice and the subsequent worldwide protest, we appear on the verge of moving into an unprecedented time and space of opportunity to address racism and racial injustices in America that have deep and painful roots.

Any time one begins to discuss unpleasant topics which have caused excessive pain, discrimination, incarceration, and loss of life a new level of empathy and sensitivity is required. Out of the pain and hurt, there can be a natural tendency to cast blame, get defensive and lash out in ways that may be counter to productive dialogue. Out of that same pain and hurt can also bring new opportunities for change and improvement.

Many conversations forthcoming will be between those of a different culture and ethnicity. With the diversity in America and the world today, there are many variables that must be taken into consideration. There is much groundwork and foundational preparation required before those difficult conversations begin.

An added by-product and bonus of this course is the concepts presented will increase your ability to have tough and difficult conversations with anyone on any topic allowing for more beneficial outcomes and improved relationships. This is a huge bonus.

This course will discuss and examine boundaries and steps designed to allow parties to gain and appreciate the perspective of others whether they agree with the other or not. Parties will need to give space for others to share their deepest feeling and emotions without judgment and without being dismissive or condescending.  It will not be easy to discuss unjust events from the days of slavery to the present. These conversations are likely to bring forth heated issues of blame, systemic racism, reparations, denial, marginalization, affirmative actions, injustices in education, employment, housing discrimination, and more. 

Improving race relations in a society with over 240 years of history and done very little in efforts to rectify the damages caused by racism and oppression will not be easy. Leadership expert and best-selling author John C. Maxwell, states, "Everything worthwhile is uphill."   

In this course, we will examine the challenges to be expected and provide some recommended guidelines for having respectable and hopefully fruitful and harmonious conversations. Feelings and emotions spring forth during times of challenge and adversity. We are and have been dealing with the COVID-19 crisis for an extended period of time with no current end in sight, it is important for everyone to become more empathetic and sensitive to the feelings, emotions, and perspectives of others. We believe this course will add great value to not only you but those you care most about and interact with regularly.

The only requirement you should having a willingness to be stretched beyond your current comfort zone and a genuine desire to improve race relations, not only in America but around the world.