About Racial Healing

Racial healing recognizes the need to acknowledge and tell the truth about past wrongs created by individual and systemic racism and address the present consequences. It is an experience and a tool that can facilitate trust and build authentic relationships that bridge divides created by real and perceived differences.

Our Equity Institute is grateful that many individuals and organizations in Evanston are interested in the work of racial healing. We know it is not the responsibility of one person, one group, or one organization to drive this work. The responsibility belongs to all of us to participate in these honest, powerful and moving experiences and, pursue this journey together. Through racial healing, we can forge deep, meaningful relationships, lay the groundwork to transform broken systems, and create a community in which, together, we are a new force for positive change.

We are happy to offer these circles as part of the Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation initiative of the Kellogg Foundation, funded in part by Healing Illinois.

What is a Racial Healing Circle?

It is a session consisting of both group interactions and smaller, more intimate conversations between two participants. The experience relies on intentional listening. It may be an emotional, even transformational, experience for participants, as conversations can unearth truths and conscious and unconscious biases. It can also raise the awareness, consciousness, compassion and empathy among those who participate. Trained Racial Healing Circle practitioners are responsible for helping to ensure that these circles are confidential safe spaces for participants to have truthful conversations with one another. 

How can I participate?

Racial Healing Circles are online during this time.  February 2021 Racial Healing Circles are full, and we have not yet set a date for the next set. Check back soon!

New to our registration platform Community Pass? Follow our guide to set-up an account.