What’s the difference between race and ethnicity?
Four scholars offer quick answers to the question.
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We are excited to embark on this learning journey with you. As an organization, United Way of Greater Atlanta understands racial equity is central to our work to improve child well-being so that children, families, and communities can thrive. Disparities across race and zip codes are holding us back and limiting the opportunity for an equitable Greater Atlanta. The 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge is a powerful opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of how inequity and racism affect our lives, our Greater Atlanta communities, and child well-being.
As a reminder, this journey is at your own pace. The challenge is designed for you to spend 10-15 minutes a day learning and 20-30 minutes a week in discussion and reflection. Try to digest the information slowly. Allow time for reflection and avoid feeling pressure to tackle everything. Thank you again for taking part!
RACIAL EQUITY – This 21-Day Challenge is focused on racial equity. The Center for Social Inclusion defines racial equity as an outcome and a process. We are striving toward the outcome of everyone having what they need to thrive, regardless of their race or where they live. The process of equity requires breaking down beliefs, systems, policies, and practices that support systemic racism and racial inequity.
RACIAL IDENTITY – Identity matters. How do you think about your racial identity and its relevance to your work, volunteerism and studies? Who do you think you are? Who do others think you are? How we think about who we are and how others think we are can have an influence on all aspects of our lives.
RACE IS A SOCIAL CONSTRUCT – You may have heard the idea that race is a “social construct.” What does this mean? Race is not defined by genetics or DNA. Instead, society plays a major role in shaping our views of race and racial identity. With this comes social, economic, and political implications that have contributed to racial inequity in the United States for hundreds of years.
Here is a resource to bookmark and reference throughout the Challenge. The Racial Equity Tools Glossary by Racial Equity Tools includes more than 20 key terms and quick definitions.
This glossary by Racial Equity Tools includes more than 20 key terms and quick definitions.
When did you first become aware of your racial identity? What messages did you learn about race from your school or family early in life? When have others’ perceptions of your racial identity affected how they treat you?
Colored Entrance Only sign (reproduction of 1934 original) courtesy of the Atlanta History Center.
This mural is located at 333 Peters Street, near downtown Atlanta in the Castleberry Hill Neighborhood. Hey Brown Girl You’re Beautiful Mural, created by Nikia Phoenix & The Painter Bae
Today in Greater Atlanta nearly 500,000 children live in communities lacking the basic opportunities and resources needed to thrive. Lives born with pure potential are too often offset by the disparities that a zip code or race produces, holding us back for an equitable Greater Atlanta.
Ⓒ 2022 United Way of Greater Atlanta
The following organizations have provided funds to support the United Way Racial Equity and Healing Fund.
Anthem
Assurant
Betty and Davis Fitzgerald Foundation
Gas South
Genuine Parts Company
Global Payments Inc
Printpack
Robert W. Woodruff Foundation
Southern Company Gas
Target HQ
The Annie E. Casey Foundation
The Coca-Cola Company
Truist
