There are many reasons why learning opportunities like those offered through the RELE Sessions℠ are considered relevant. Three of the more basic reasons why many participants believe that RELE Sessions℠ are needed are listed below. 

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Engaging Data Informed Action 

Data is used to raise public awareness and encourage system leaders and other caring citizens to become more intentional in their efforts to reduce the broad spectrum of social determinants of health and well-being that continue to exist.  Despite what many would like to believe - race does still matter. Data suggests both historically and currently, that black, and brown communities continue to lack access to the same opportunities and resources afforded white families and communities.

 

Correcting The Flawed Historical Narrative

Much of US history is devoid of comprehensive information about the lived experiences, oppression, accomplishments and aspirations of black and brown families and their communities. As a result, too many citizens lack the requisite awareness and empathy necessary to eliminate the root causes perpetuating racial disparities, divisions, stereotypes and tensions between racial/ethnic groups.

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Embracing The Growing Signs Of Hope 

The time for progress is now. Increasing numbers of citizens have become awakened to the reality      that our nation can and should do more to improve outcomes for all children, families, and communities. Many leaders acknowledge that saying "equality for all" is not good enough. They are recognizing their efforts must deliberately focus on improving the outcomes and opportunities for communities of color that have historically: faired the worse; been forced to relinquish the most; been rewarded the least; and often worked the hardest. While some progress has been made, there are significant racial disparity gaps in black and brown communities that continue to persist. More action is required to level the playing field in ways that are racially equitable. Growing numbers of leaders and citizens are using the RELE Sessions℠ to figure out how to level the playing field. They are starting with a review of the data.

 

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The Three Basic Objectives of

Racial Equity Learning Exchange (RELE) Sessions℠  are to:

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1. Build the capacity of individuals and organizations to engage in "courageous conversation" about the intersections of race, poverty, trauma and the need for multi-systemic reform; 

2. Create a safe learning environment that invites and challenges each participant to identify and discuss how potential racial attitudes,  assumptions, and stereotypes might be impacting  child and family outcomes; and

3. Provide a learning framework for identifying, understanding and addressing structural racism and achieving racial equity.

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