Like many I have spent the past week listening and reflecting. I want to keep the focus on the racial injustice against black Americans (that is thankfully having its moment of reckoning) and not be so self absorbed as to make this about me, but I have taken the time to ask myself what have I done right and what have I done wrong as someone who sees themselves as anti-racist.
In asking myself these questions, I realized that the many years I spent actively volunteering in the community in New Orleans and Charleston were the years I felt most connected. Teaching adult literacy in New Orleans and cooking classes at Charleston public schools were truly invaluable experiences. Of course, like many I often let my workaholic drive get in the way of all things, and since opening the Exchange (at Edmund's Oast) I have not made the time for volunteering.
I reconciled this in my brain by at least instituting a give-back program at the Exchange where our Thursday tastings (during pre-pandemic times) benefited a local community group. I have met so many incredible folks through these evenings, and this past week I realized the value in bringing some of these leaders together for a virtual round table on community involvement and asking ourselves, “What am I doing to fight institutionalized racism?” (See details regarding event at the end of this post.)
It’s a lot; I know. And most of the time I feel inadequate and uncomfortable. But I am determined to at least try and make a difference. I know there are many like me who want to be better citizens in their communities but maybe don’t know how.
I hope that we can all learn something from each other and move forward with a sense of hope and unity to better fight racial injustice.
Thank you to everyone who has already signed up to participate. Please email me if you would like more information: sarah@edmundsoast.com
Event Basics:
WHAT: Community Round Table with Charleston Promise Neighborhood, YWCA, Operation Home, Lowcountry Local First
WHEN: Thursday, June 11, 6 to 7 p.m. (but recorded also!)
WHERE: Via zoom; a link will be sent
HOW: Email sarah@edmundsoast.com for link
More details:
Of course, there will be wine involved — from the amazing black owned winery Maison Noir — Oregon deliciousness! (But no purchase necessary to participate.)
Would you like to participate but wine is not in your budget? Also email me; we have wines donated for this purpose!
All proceeds from wine sales related to this event will be donated to Color of Change, the nation’s largest online racial justice organization.
Featured Wines from Maison Noir:
OPP Pinot Gris $21
Love Drunk Rose $20
OPP Pinot Noir $21