What can we do about racism today? It is clear to us that the struggle for racial equality and justice in our country continues. Especially if we identify as White people, we need more opportunities to understand racism and explore what steps we can take to become anti-racist allies.
This book and movie discussion will invite us to explore race and racism in America through novels, essays, feature films and documentaries. We will explore historical moments and our present realities. We will follow themes from work to work: What is beautiful? How are dark-skinned bodies treated in America? How can racial equality be pursued and achieved? What has changed since the Civil Rights Movement, and what work remains to be done? As people of faith, what can we do?
These discussions are for all members and friends of First Unitarian Church, of all racial identities. Feel free to bring your friends-no formal connection to the church is needed. They are open to adults and youth, although youth will need permission to watch R-rated movies. You can attend one or all of the discussions. Of course, the more sessions you attend, the fuller your experience will be.
We'll meet in the Landers Room. All discussions take place at 7 p.m. on Monday nights throughout the church year. Feature films will be screened the night before their discussion, on a Sunday night at 7 p.m. Feel free to attend the movie screening (popcorn and some themes to think about overnight will be provided) or to watch the movie on your own.
At the end of the year, we'll conclude with a worship service and an opportunity to think about next steps. I look forward to gathering with you for these important conversations.
Race and Racism
Through Page and Screen
Led by the Rev. Sarah C. Stewart
All gatherings begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Landers Room
September 28 Book Discussion
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
October 25 Movie Screening
Do the Right Thing (rated R)
October 26 Movie Discussion
Do the Right Thing
November 9 Book Discussion
Between the World and Me
by Ta-Nehisi Coates
December 6 Movie Screening
Slumdog Millionaire (rated R)
December 7 Movie Discussion
Slumdog Millionaire
December 14 Book Discussion
Faces in the Bottom of the Well by Derek Bell
January 10 Movie Screening
West Side Story (Unrated)
January 11 Movie Discussion
West Side Story
January 25 Book Discussion
The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan
February 7 Movie Screening
Caesar Chavez (rated PG-13)
February 8 Movie Discussion
Caesar Chavez
February 22 Book Discussion TBA
March 13 Movie Screening TBA
March 14 Movie Discussion TBA
April 11 Documentary Screening and Discussion TBA
April 25 Documentary Screening and Discussion TBA
May 9 Documentary Screening and Discussion TBA
May 23 Closing Worship Service
