As the movement to change systematic racism gains momentum, many people are wondering what to do next. We all play a role in this transformative time, and even the smallest actions, when taken together, yield substantial results.

In Solidarity, a free, anti-racism learning community created to encourage conversations, will launch the week of July 13 at several locations across the Twin Cities and online. Participants come together to show support for Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) by learning, growing, undoing and challenging our implicit biases while gaining understanding of the history that has brought us to this point in time.

“Every situation we encounter provides us with an opportunity,” shares Annette Rugolo, one of the group leaders. “Our willingness to learn and grow through tragic circumstances creates lasting change in ourselves, our families and our communities.”

In Solidarity will be co-created with participants through sharing of ideas on how to implement being anti-racist in our everyday lives and supporting one another in being a part of this transformative time. Groups will be limited to eight participants to provide all members the opportunity to contribute ideas while being intimate enough to allow for vulnerability.

“It’s our responsibility as white people to educate ourselves on racism so we can take part in creating the peace we are all seeking,” states Candi Broeffle, publisher of Natural Awakenings Twin Cities magazine and another group leader. “We will create a space where anyone interested in understanding history from a different perspective and doing the difficult work of challenging our own biases feels welcome and safe in doing so.”

Participants will begin by watching and discussing the Netflix documentary 13th, which explores the intersection of race, justice and mass incarceration in the United States. This will be followed with the book White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk about Race. However, In Solidarity will go beyond the traditional book club to include research and presentations of policy changes, proposed legislation, the platforms of local political candidates and more. Groups will be encouraged to support local anti-racism and inclusivity events. All participants will be invited to join a private Facebook group to encourage connection with people throughout the learning community.

Cost: Free. To learn more and to join, go to In Solidarity: A Learning Community