Not In Our Town (NIOT) is sponsoring “Circles – A community discussion on racism” every Monday night at 7 p.m. during August. These on-line sessions will feature a restorative conversation about racism, how it affects people and what the community can do to dismantle it. The sessions begin at 7 p.m. every Monday until 8:30 p.m. It is not necessary to attend all sessions, as each discussion will repeat topics. Attendance is limited to 100 per session.
The pre-registration ZOOM Link is: Virtual Listening Circle-Restorative Conversations about Race – https://ltcillinois.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEvdOmrrTorHNbfDiQi8gSUKBr8AzJuSxeo
The link for the sessions is https://ltcillinois.zoom.us/j/3617795439?pwd=dlBSS3hvNU5YNjlxcU1oK3JMMDRIUT09
Facilitator Kevin Jones explained: “The purpose of these listening circles is to provide an opportunity for people to express their thoughts and feelings about racism and racial violence. This is a sharing with the purpose of listening, storytelling, and connecting, it is not a discussion nor is it a debate. Some of what we are doing may seem quite formal and it is. The reason for this is to ensure everyone is free to respond to the questions without being interrupted or asked to explain themselves. Each of us is being invited to speak and to respectfully listen. I will be facilitating this process as well as participating. These sessions may be difficult for some and you may have an unexpected strong reaction.”
Restorative Practices is an emerging social science that studies strengthening relationships between individuals as well as social connections within communities. Though new to the social sciences, restorative practices have deep roots within indigenous communities throughout the world. Restorative practices aim to develop community and manage conflict and tensions.
Not In Our Town is a 25-year, volunteer local effort to stop hate and create a safe and inclusive community for all.
For more information, contact Kevin Jones, Restorative Practices consultant, 309-262-9999 or Dr. Rev. Brigitte Black, Pastor, Wayman A.M.E. Church, 309-828-1287
