Say the Wrong Thing: Strategies of the H.E.A.R.T. for Racial Justice and Authentic Community

• Are you afraid of saying the wrong thing?
• Are you frozen by guilt and fear of causing harm?
• Do you find yourself exhausted and anxious as a person of color frequently in predominantly white settings?
• Do you yearn for authentic connection and communication about racial justice within and across racial lines?

There is widespread agreement that national dialogue and conversations about the effects of systemic racism are critically important to healing our polarized and racially divided society. Despite that consensus, many of us shy away from the necessary conversations. This workshop will stretch and support you so that you can initiate and participate difficult conversations while staying grounded, open, and connected to your intention. Rooted in the five strategies of the H.E.A.R.T. approach, you will build your capacity to:

• Hold space for transformation;
• Express yourself;
• Act with intention (driven by vision);
• Reflect on yourself;
• Trust the process.

We will use a variety of small group exercises, mindfulness and selfcompassion techniques, and artistic expression, as well as film clips and readings.

By the end of the weekend you will be able to have uncomfortable conversations to further racial justice and oneness; break through your own sticking points; practice hearing and giving authentic feedback from a place of love; and connect systemic racism with everyday resistance.

Leader(s)

Amanda Kemp graduated from Stanford University and earned a PhD from Northwestern University. She has taught at the university level for over a decade and served as a Pennsylvania Commonwealth Lecturer. The founder of Theatre for Transformation, Kemp has reached over 25,000 people in her artistic and academic residencies at schools, colleges, and faith gatherings. She is currently touring “INSPIRA: The Power of the Spiritual.” When not traveling, she resides in Lancaster, PA, with her husband, violinist Michael Jamanis, their five children and chocolate lab Jake. She is a member of Lancaster Friends Meeting. For a more complete biography, visit http://dramandakemp.com/about/meet-dr-kemp/.

Travel directions to Pendle Hill. Click to view the flyer.