Talking About Race Portal
A new free-to-use web portal that helps people explore issues of race, racism, and racial identity has been created by the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Called Talking About Race, this portal acts as a valuable resource for individuals, families, and communities.
Understanding Racial Identity
The portal examines how various forces surrounding racial identity shape every aspect of society in the USA, including the economy, politics, and broader culture. It provides digital tools, video instructions, online exercises, scholarly articles, and over 100 multimedia resources tailored for educators, parents, caregivers, and individuals committed to racial equality.
Notably, recent incidents—including actions in Central Park and police brutality resulting in the deaths of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd—prompted the museum to accelerate the release date of Talking About Race.
Addressing Racial Conversations
“Since opening the museum, the number one question we are asked is how to talk about race, especially with children. We recognize how difficult it is to start that conversation. However, in a nation still grappling with the legacies of slavery, Jim Crow laws, and white supremacy, we must engage in these essential discussions if we hope to foster healing and understanding. This new portal is a significant step in that direction,” stated Spencer Crew, interim director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
This initiative is the culmination of extensive research and studies, drawing from decades of insights provided by the museum’s educators. It features published research from notable experts, activists, historians, and thought leaders on race, equity, and inclusion, including Brené Brown, Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw, Robin DiAngelo, Julie Olsen Edwards, and Bishop Desmond Tutu.
Resources for Engagement
“The portal offers a wealth of resources to inform and guide discussions—videos, role-playing exercises, targeted questions, and more. We hope that people will utilize this site to become more at ease with engaging in honest dialogue and self-reflection,” Crew added.
Key Topics Covered
Phase one of the portal includes eight foundational subjects, such as:
- Being Anti-Racist: A conscious decision to make frequent, consistent, and equitable choices daily.
- Bias: An inclination or prejudice toward or against something or someone.
- Historical Foundations of Race: Understanding how race, white privilege, and anti-blackness are intertwined in American society.
The portal is freely accessible and does not require any user registration to explore.
