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Speaker: David Pepper, Lawyer, Writer, Political Activist, Former Elected Official and Adjunct Professor FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, July 24, 2024 Boston, MA – The Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation  today announces its October event of the Let’s Talk Series. On Wednesday, October 16, 2024, 7-9 pm EDT (UTC-4), David Pepper will present Let’s Talk Series: Saving Democracy in the Short- and Long-Term . Please join us via Zoom on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, 7-9 pm EDT (UTC-4) for Let’s Talk Series: Saving Democracy in the Short- and Long-Term . Every presidential cycle, the narrative is the same. This Presidential election is the key to saving democracy. Four years later, the same narrative repeats, but of late, democracy never feels any safer.  David Pepper has written two books explaining the deeper battle against democracy that has been playing out for decades, damaging key safeguards for democracy at levels and in places that are too often overlooked. Once you understand that that is the true front line in the battle for democracy, the need to have a broader and deeper battle to save democracy--beyond even presidential and US Senate elections—becomes paramount. Pepper will walk through that deeper strategy. David Pepper, Lawyer, Writer, Political Activist, Former Elected Official, Adjunct Professor and Author of Laboratories of Autocracy (St. Helena Press 2021)  and Saving Democracy (St. Helena Press 2023) , Senior Fellow, Kettering Foundation. David Pepper is a lawyer, writer, democracy activist, former elected official, and adjunct professor, and served as the Chairman of the Ohio Democratic Party between 2015 and 2021. His recent non-fiction works dissect the attack on democracy taking place in states like Ohio, and guide everyday citizens on steps they can take to lift democracy. Pepper’s book Laboratories of Autocracy (St. Helena Press 2021)  has been called “arguably the most important” recent book on American democracy by Salon Magazine, and his follow-up book Saving Democracy: A User’s Manual (2023)  has been widely praised and featured on MSNBC, CNN, C-SPAN and other networks. Born and raised in Cincinnati, David is a fifth-generation Cincinnatian. David earned his B.A. magna cum laude from Yale University, where he was Phi Beta Kappa, and later earned his J.D. from Yale Law School. David served on Cincinnati City Council from 2001-2005, then on the Hamilton County Commission from 2007-2010, including as its president in 2009-2010. David was the Democratic candidate for Ohio Auditor in 2010 and Ohio Attorney General in 2014. He was elected chair of the Ohio Democratic Party in December 2014. In that role, he was engaged in numerous battles and extensive litigation over voter suppression and election laws in the Buckeye State, as well as reform efforts to enhance voting and end gerrymandering. He championed ballot initiatives that twice garnered 70% of the vote across Ohio, and spearheaded the effort to elect an independent Supreme Court in the state for the first time in a generation. Before the Event Although not required to attend this event, we suggest reading Laboratories of Autocracy (St. Helena Press 2021)  and Saving Democracy (St. Helena Press 2023)  and purchasing it from a black-owned bookstore . All registered participants will have access to a brief pre-event survey that allows questions to be submitted to our speaker. During the Event This is a webinar style event. All registered participants will have the opportunity to submit questions to our speaker. Questions will be screened and asked, given the time allowed. After the Event All registered participants will receive a post-event email including a survey and additional resources. A recording of the event will be publicly available on the Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation website, in the days following our event. Please join us via Zoom on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, 7-9 pm EDT (UTC-4) for Let’s Talk Series: Saving Democracy in the Short- and Long-Term. Please register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/saving-democracy-in-the-short-and-long-term-tickets-938618913437?aff=pr . Wednesday, October 16, 2024 Boston 7 pm EDT (UTC-4) Cincinnati 7 pm EDT (UTC-4) Salt Lake City 5 pm MDT (UTC-6) Seattle 4 pm PDT (UTC-7) Honolulu 1 pm HST (UTC-10) Corresponding UTC (GMT) 23:00:00 Social Website: https://davidpepper.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidpepper Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/davidpepper About Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation The Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation is committed to human reconciliation and the eradication of racism and other forms of human oppression. Our work focuses on healing the internal emotional and cognitive harms that have allowed racism to continue to thrive in our society. We support the efforts of many other groups and individuals by providing opportunities for learning and self-reflection so that strategies to eradicate racism can become more successful. Additional information about the Center can be found by visiting the website and by following @dcbcenter. Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation Website: http://www.dcbcenter.org Twitter: https://twitter.com/dcbcenter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dockcbracycenter Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dcbcenter LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/dcbcenter TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@dcbcenter YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEWo3ofiX7CdQDzHUsn3N2Q ###

Speaker: Julie Farnam, National Security & Intelligence Expert, Author of “Domestic Darkness” FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 Boston, MA – The Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation  today announces its next event of the Let’s Talk Series. On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, 7-9 pm EDT  (UTC-4), Julie Farnam will present The White Power Movement: Its History, Threat and What You Can Do About It . The white power movement has long posed a threat to our safety and to our democracy.  In this session, Julie Farnam will discuss the origins of the white power movement in the United States, how it has inspired violence throughout the years, where the movement stands today, and what we can do to address its danger.  She will examine the continued assault on our educational system to deny children the right to know and understand different perspectives and that prevent the healing of past wrongs as well as strategies to recognize and combat hate in our communities. Julie Farnam is the author of Domestic Darkness: An Insider's Account of the January 6th Insurrection, and the Future of Right-Wing Extremism  (Ig Publishing, 2024). Julie Farnam served as the Assistant and then Acting Director of Intelligence for the United States Capitol Police during one of the most tumultuous periods in this country’s history. During her time there, she oversaw the identification and vetting of nearly 20,000 threats against members of Congress, many of which were made by U.S. citizens who adhered to extremist ideologies. Prior to joining the Capitol Police, Farnam served with the Department of Homeland Security for over fifteen years. Before the Event Although not required to attend this event, we suggest reading Domestic Darkness: An Insider's Account of the January 6th Insurrection, and the Future of Right-Wing Extremism  (Ig Publishing, 2024) and purchasing it from a black-owned bookstore . All registered participants will have access to a brief pre-event survey that allows questions to be submitted to our speaker. During the Event This is a webinar style event. All registered participants will have the opportunity to submit questions to our speaker. Questions will be screened and asked, given the time allowed. After the Event All registered participants will receive a post-event email including a survey and additional resources. A recording of the event will be publicly available on the Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation website, in the days following our event. Please join us via Zoom onWednesday, September 18, 2024, 7-9 pm EDT (UTC-4) for Let's Talk Series: The White Power Movement: Its History, Threat and What You Can Do About It .  Please register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-white-power-movement-its-history-threat-and-what-you-can-do-about-it-tickets-810833082577?aff=pr . Wednesday, September 18, 2024 Boston 7:00 pm EDT (UTC-4) Chicago 6:00 pm CDT (UTC-5) Salt Lake City 5:00 pm MDT (UTC-6) Seattle 4:00 pm PDT (UTC-7) Honolulu 1:00 pm HST (UTC-10 Corresponding UTC (GMT) 23:00 Social LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-farnam/ About Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation The Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation is committed to human reconciliation and the eradication of racism and other forms of human oppression. Our work focuses on healing the internal emotional and cognitive harms that have allowed racism to continue to thrive in our society. We support the efforts of many other groups and individuals by providing opportunities for learning and self-reflection so that strategies to eradicate racism can become more successful. Additional information about the Center can be found by visiting the website and by following @dcbcenter. Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation Website: http://www.dcbcenter.org Twitter: https://twitter.com/dcbcenter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dockcbracycenter Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dcbcenter LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/dcbcenter TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@dcbcenter YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEWo3ofiX7CdQDzHUsn3N2Q ###

Wednesday, June 26, 2024, 7-9pm EDT (UTC-4) The Dock C. Bracy Center’s Reading for Understanding monthly book discussions are free and have two requirements: Read the book and make time for the discussion. Reading for Understanding: Free Monthly Virtual Book Discussions to Promote Reading, Ongoing Learning and Critical Conversations I'm Not Yelling: A Black Woman's Guide to Navigating the Workplace by Elizabeth Leiba Facilitated by Cherie & Stephanie Bookstore: Black Pearl Books, Austin, Texas, https://blackpearlbookstore.com Empower yourself with insights and strategies for success in our upcoming virtual book discussion featuring Elizabeth Leiba's empowering guide, "I'm Not Yelling: A Black Woman's Guide to Navigating the Workplace." About the Book "I'm Not Yelling" provides a candid and empowering perspective on navigating the complexities of the workplace as a Black woman. Elizabeth Leiba offers practical advice, shares personal anecdotes, and addresses the unique challenges faced by Black women in professional settings. Join us as we explore this invaluable guide to career success and personal empowerment. Discussion Highlights Discussing the experiences and challenges outlined in the book Exploring strategies for navigating workplace dynamics Reflecting on the intersectionality of race and gender in professional spaces Sharing personal stories and insights related to the workplace Virtual Platform The discussion will take place on Zoom, providing a convenient and inclusive space for participants to share their perspectives and engage in meaningful dialogue. Registered participants will login to their Eventbrite account to access this virtual event via the event page. Facilitators Cherie and Stephanie will guide the discussion, creating a supportive environment for participants to share their thoughts, ask questions, and explore the themes presented in "I'm Not Yelling." Registration To participate in this insightful book discussion, please register by https://www.eventbrite.com/e/757320846037 . Registration is free and by donation, and all are welcome to join this enriching conversation. Support black-owned bookstores Where and how you choose to spend money has power. Shop Black Pearl Books, Austin, Texas, https://blackpearlbookstore.com or visit African American Literature Book Club, https://aalbc.com/bookstores/list.php to find a black-owned bookstore in your area.

The project, designed for adults and youth, has three goals: inspire artistic expression, encourage critical thinking about democracy and fundraise for the Center. The project addresses important questions by asking youth of all  ages  (with parental permission) and adults to depict their meaning of democracy using visual art and the written word. What does democracy mean to us individually and collectively? What are threats to democracy? What decisions do we make to protect democracy, the U.S. Constitution, and the important work of the Center and similar organizations? Take action to submit your entry and raise your voice. All approved submissions will be listed on the Center’s Threadless store and made available for public viewing and purchase. Profits from sales of the “What does democracy mean to you?” collection will go to the Center. Submissions are due May 1, 2024 at 5 p.m. EDT (UTC-4) through the Center’s website. Adult participants are encouraged to continue learning through the Center’s Eradicating Racism: A Path Forward learning series, Finding Your Voice Program, Reading for Understanding, Let's Talk Series: The White Power Movement: Its History, Threat and What You Can Do About It and future events. Entrants must adhere to the Guidelines, Rules and Agreement. All project submissions must be made using the following forms by May 1, 2024 at 5:00:00 pm EDT (UTC-4). We encourage you to share the “What does democracy mean to you?” project. To increase visibility, please use the following hashtag on social media #wddmty and mention the Center: @dcbcenter (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok), @dockcbracycenter (Instagram). Twitter: https://twitter.com/dcbcenter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dockcbracycenter Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dcbcenter LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/dcbcenter TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@dcbcenter #wddmty #Democracy #Vote #VotingRights #Elections #CivicEngagement #CivilRights #Citizenship #DemocraticProcess #Government #VoiceYourVote #DemocracyMatters #FreeElections #ElectoralSystem #DemocracyInAction #ParticipatoryDemocracy #DemocracyNow #DemocracyForAll #CitizenEngagement #ArtFundraiser #SupportTheArts #ArtForACause #ArtAuction #ArtBenefit #ArtCommunity #ArtDonation #ArtSupport #ArtPhilanthropy #ArtCharity #ArtsFunding #ArtGala #ArtCampaign #FundraisingEvent #ArtistsSupportingArtists #ArtistsForChange #ArtActivism #CreativeFundraising #ArtsAndCulture #ArtisticCommunity

Wednesday, May 22, 2024, 7-9pm EDT (UTC-4) The Dock C. Bracy Center’s Reading for Understanding monthly book discussions are free and have two requirements: Read the book and make time for the discussion. Reading for Understanding: Free Monthly Virtual Book Discussions to Promote Reading, Ongoing Learning and Critical Conversations South to America by Imani Perry Facilitated by Sabrina & Nicole Bookstore: Blackstone Bookstore, Ypsilanti, Michigan, https://www.blackstonebookstore.com Embark on a profound exploration of history, identity, and the American South in our upcoming virtual book discussion featuring Imani Perry's compelling work, "South to America." About the Book "South to America" takes readers on a lyrical journey through the American South, weaving together personal narrative, history, and cultural analysis. Imani Perry's insightful exploration invites us to reflect on the complexities of heritage, belonging, and the enduring legacy of the South in shaping the American experience. Discussion Highlights Analyzing the intersections of personal and collective history Reflecting on the cultural and social landscapes of the American South Discussing the impact of the South on national identity Exploring themes of race, memory, and belonging Virtual Platform The discussion will take place on Zoom, providing a convenient and inclusive space for participants to share their perspectives and engage in meaningful dialogue. Registered participants will login to their Eventbrite account to access this virtual event via the event page. Facilitators Sabrina and Nicole will guide the discussion, fostering an inclusive space for participants to share their thoughts, questions, and reflections. This interactive session aims to celebrate the richness of "South to America" and stimulate diverse perspectives. Registration To participate in this insightful book discussion, please register by https://www.eventbrite.com/e/757312310507. Registration is free and by donation, and all are welcome to join this enriching conversation. Support black-owned bookstores Where and how you choose to spend money has power. Shop Blackstone Bookstore, Ypsilanti, Michigan, https://www.blackstonebookstore.com or visit African American Literature Book Club, https://aalbc.com/bookstores/list.php to find a black-owned bookstore in your area.

Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 7-9pm EDT (UTC-4) The Dock C. Bracy Center’s Reading for Understanding monthly book discussions are free and have two requirements: Read the book and make time for the discussion. Reading for Understanding: Free Monthly Virtual Book Discussions to Promote Reading, Ongoing Learning and Critical Conversations Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler Facilitated by Roxanne Bookstore: Afriware Books, Co, Maywood, Illinois, https://www.afriwarebooks.com Journey into the visionary world of Octavia E. Butler's "Parable of the Sower" in our upcoming virtual book discussion. Immerse yourself in this thought-provoking exploration of dystopia, resilience, and the power of visionary fiction. About the Book "Parable of the Sower" presents a compelling narrative set in a near-future America grappling with social and environmental collapse. Octavia E. Butler's groundbreaking work challenges readers to reflect on themes of community, faith, and the indomitable human spirit amidst chaos. Discussion Highlights Analyzing the novel's portrayal of a dystopian future Exploring the protagonist's journey and the development of Earthseed Discussing the relevance of Butler's themes in contemporary society Examining the intersection of science fiction and social commentary Virtual Platform The discussion will take place on Zoom, providing a convenient and inclusive space for participants to share their perspectives and engage in meaningful dialogue. Registered participants will login to their Eventbrite account to access this virtual event via the event page. Facilitator Roxanne will guide the discussion, encouraging participants to share their thoughts, interpretations, and questions, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas. Registration To participate in this insightful book discussion, please register by https://www.eventbrite.com/e/757311177117. Registration is free and by donation, and all are welcome to join this enriching conversation. Support black-owned bookstores Where and how you choose to spend money has power. Shop Afriware Books, Co, Maywood, Illinois, https://www.afriwarebooks.com or visit African American Literature Book Club, https://aalbc.com/bookstores/list.php to find a black-owned bookstore in your area.

Youth Division "I believe Democracy is freedom of speech. This illustrates that anyone has the right to vote." – Austin T., Age 12 "We all have a voice and it needs to be amplified. We speak for our country." – Amanda T., Age 14 Adult Division Title: Democracy: Better Than the Alternative Medium: Written The human race resolved disputes mostly through violence until The Enlightenment produced the U.S. Constitution—an imperfect effort to protect human rights without violence: law above force. – Peter R. Of the People, By the People, For the People The ROOTS represent "of the people." Tangled and thin roots symbolize the diversity of the population and their interconnectedness. The TRUNK represents "by the people." A strong trunk that rises from the roots, signifying the collective action and participation of the people. The BRANCHES and LEAVES represent "for the people." The branches and leaves of different shapes and sizes reach out, providing shade and shelter for everyone. The FRUlT it bears is accessible to all, representing the positive outcomes and benefits a government "of the people, by the people, for the people" strives to achieve. – Ronald B. About the Project The project, designed for adults and youth, has three goals: inspire artistic expression, encourage critical thinking about democracy and fundraise for the Center. The project addresses important questions by asking youth of all  ages  (with parental permission) and adults to depict their meaning of democracy using visual art and the written word. What does democracy mean to us individually and collectively? What are threats to democracy? What decisions do we make to protect democracy, the U.S. Constitution, and the important work of the Center and similar organizations? Take action to submit your entry and raise your voice. All approved submissions will be listed on the Center’s Threadless store and made available for public viewing and purchase. Profits from sales of the “What does democracy mean to you?” collection will go to the Center. Submissions are due June 1, 2024 at 5 p.m. EDT (UTC-4) through the Center’s website. Adult participants are encouraged to continue learning through the Center’s Eradicating Racism: A Path Forward learning series, Finding Your Voice Program, Reading for Understanding, Let's Talk Series: The White Power Movement: Its History, Threat and What You Can Do About It and future events. Entrants must adhere to the Guidelines, Rules and Agreement. All project submissions must be made using the following forms by June 1, 2024 at 5:00:00 pm EDT (UTC-4). We encourage you to share the “What does democracy mean to you?” project. To increase visibility, please use the following hashtag on social media #wddmty and mention the Center: @dcbcenter (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok), @dockcbracycenter (Instagram). Twitter: https://twitter.com/dcbcenter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dockcbracycenter Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dcbcenter LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/dcbcenter TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@dcbcenter #wddmty #Democracy #ArtForACause

Let's Talk Series by Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation On Wednesday, April 17, 2024, 7-9 p.m. EDT, Ric Murphy, Educator, Historian, Lecturer, and Award Winning Author, presented Lets' Talk Series: The Arrival of the First Africans in English America to their Descendants in the Revolutionary War. Continue the Learning We suggest the following materials: Documentary: Arrival of the First African Americans in English America (Verity Media, 2023) [https://arrivalfirstafricans.vhx.tv/] Book: Arrival of The First Africans in Virginia (History Press, 2020)  [https://bookshop.org/p/books/arrival-of-the-first-africans-in-virginia-ric-murphy/14352584?ean=9781467145985] Book: Section 27 and Freedman’s Village (McFarland and Company, Inc., 2020) [https://bookshop.org/p/books/section-27-and-freedman-s-village-in-arlington-national-cemetery-the-african-american-history-of-america-s-most-hallowed-ground-ric-murphy/10334612?ean=9781476677309] Book: Biography of RADM Larry Chambers, USN (McFarland and Company, Inc., 2018)  [https://bookshop.org/p/books/rear-admiral-larry-chambers-usn-first-african-american-to-command-an-aircraft-carrier-ric-murphy/10314874?ean=9781476667270] Book: Freedom Road: An American Family Saga from Jamestown to World War (Franklin Pearson Publishing, 2019)  [https://bookshop.org/p/books/freedom-road-an-american-family-saga-from-jamestown-to-world-war-ric-murphy/8647230?ean=9780578486024]. Where and how you choose to spend money has power. Please consider purchasing books from a black-owned bookstore. Connect with Ric Murphy Website: https://www.ricmurphy.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicMurphyBooks/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOqG66xXizX8HETxZ9jQ-6Q?view_as=public Documentary Official Site: https://www.arrivalfirstafricans.com Facebook: Arrival of the First Africans in English America https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091928165129 Twitter: @1stafricans https://twitter.com/1stafricans Instagram: @arrivalfirstafricans https://www.instagram.com/arrivalfirstafricans Additional Resources/References https://ricmurphy.com/ Ric's documentary: https://filmfreeway.com/ArrivaloftheFirstAfricansinEnglishAmerica More about Phillis Wheatley: https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/phillis-wheatley victuals: food or provisions Ric's book: https://ricmurphy.com/purchase-the-book/ DAR Forgotten Patriots: https://www.dar.org/library/research-guides/forgotten-patriots "Their cash crop was enslavement." "There was a specific reason that history was intended to be forgotten and intentionally erased." "We learn 'his story' not the real story." More about Bantu people: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bantu_peoples The treaty he's talking about: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treaty_of_Tordesillas Map: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treaty_of_Tordesillas#/media/File:Spain_and_Portugal.png An excellent explanation of the enslavement of indigenous people by the Spanish and Portuguese in Central and South America, and later North America: https://www.npr.org/2016/04/17/471622218/horrors-pile-up-quietly-in-the-other-slavery A recording of this webinar will be posted on the Dock C. Bracy Center website eventually at https://www.dcbcenter.org/resources-old. You can find videos of our previous webinars covering a variety of topics. Kate shared this book "Psychic Roots: Serendipity and Intuition in Geneology" https://genealogical.com/store/psychic-roots/ You can email Ric at ricmurphy@ricmurphy.com And more about Ric: https://ricmurphy.com/ "The Revolutionary War was an integrated war." Not until after the Revolutionary War did they segregate the soldiers. If you're interested, Ric discusses indentured servitude and how that turned into chattel slavery at length in "Arrival of the First Africans in Virginia." 1705 Slave Codes: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virginia_Slave_Codes_of_1705 More about the massacre of 1622: https://www.worldhistory.org/Indian_Massacre_of_1622/ This is a podcast with the author Michael Harriot who talks more about the skills that were brought to the U.S. via enslaved people: https://slate.com/podcasts/a-word/2023/09/beyond-basic-black-history Michael's book: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/black-af-history-michael-harriot?variant=40991976128546 Africans and inoculation: https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2023/09/smallpox-inoculation-history-onesimus-mather.html Cuffeytown: https://www.visitchesapeake.com/things-to-do/history/aaht/cuffeytown/ 10 Million Names project: https://10millionnames.org/ Hidden African DNA revealed by testing: https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/social-issues/they-considered-themselves-white-but-dna-tests-told-a-more-complex-story/2018/02/06/16215d1a-e181-11e7-8679-a9728984779c_story.html And: https://www.science.org/content/article/genetic-study-reveals-surprising-ancestry-many-americans manumitted: release from slavery; set free Speaking of slavery outside the south, a professor at a college near where I live talked about how slavery benefited the state of Minnesota: https://shop.mnhs.org/products/slaverys-reach Slave market in NYC: https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/mannahatta-park/highlights/19696 I'm Black and I'm Proud: https://www.mainpointbooks.com/book/9798218039431 Maybe this one too: https://www.amazon.com/Am-Proud-Be-Me/dp/1737311720 A copy of the recording will be here: https://www.dcbcenter.org/resources-old Upcoming events for Dock C Bracy Center, including a reading group next Wednesday! https://www.dcbcenter.org/events Learning series: https://www.dcbcenter.org/post/eradicating-racism-a-path-forward-learning-series-september-2024 Donate at https://www.dcbcenter.org/ Future events for the Dock C. Bracy Center: https://www.dcbcenter.org/events Ric Murphy is an educator, historian, lecturer, and award winning author, including the highly acclaimed Freedom Road. Ric was a Senior Executive Fellow at Harvard University, Kennedy School of Government; and he has a Masters in Urban Affairs from Boston University, and a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Massachusetts. Mr. Murphy has served in elected and appointed positions within state and local governments, and has taught and lectured at the post secondary level. He has served as Chairman of the Board of several private and community based organizations; served on numerous national, local and not-for-profit Boards of Directors; served on countless Advisory Boards to community based organizations and not-for-profits; and has received numerous awards for his public activism and community work. He was born in Boston, Massachusetts, and his family lineage dates to the earliest colonial periods of Plymouth, Massachusetts, and of Jamestown, Virginia. His family lineage has been evaluated and accepted by the Daughters of the American Revolution, the National Society of the Sons of Colonial New England, the Sons of the American Revolution, Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War, and the Society of the First African Families of English America. In his writings, Murphy explores the roles and rich contributions made by African Americans in United States history. He lives and works in Washington, D.C.. Learning with the Center Eradicating Racism series: https://www.dcbcenter.org/eradicating-racism-learning-series More about DCBC monthly book club, Reading for Understanding: https://www.dcbcenter.org/reading-for-understanding For future Let's Talk Series events, please subscribe to our email list at: https://www.dcbcenter.org/subscribe.

This four session learning series is delivered virtually over four consecutive weeks. Each week, there is required pre-work and a two hour live group discussion. What are the goals of the learning series? Assist participants in understanding the complexity, and the simplicity, of racism using critical thinking, self-reflection, and communication. Connect this to an understanding of other systems of oppression. Create a safe, healing learning environment for participants to learn, grow, and explore racism in our society, and in ourselves. Begin to develop implementable strategies to address/repair the harm racism has caused. Introduce the Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation and offer a path forward. Participant Commitments To do all pre-work before attending class. To attend all sessions in their entirety (if there is a problem, let us know). To being fully present and engaged in class. To take responsibility for your learning. All these commitments are essential to your learning, the group process, and the success of this program. When is the April 2024 learning series? The Complexity of Systemic Racism (Session #1), Thursday, April 11, 2024, 7-9 pm EDT (UTC-4 hours) Institutional Racism & White Privilege (Session #2), Thursday, April 18, 2024, 7-9 pm EDT (UTC-4 hours) Building Conversational Skills for Challenging Racism (Session #3), Thursday, April 25, 2024, 7-9 pm EDT (UTC-4 hours) Taking Action Making Change (Session #4), Thursday, May 2, 2024, 7-9 pm EDT (UTC-4 hours) Sessions for this series begin promptly at: 7:00:00 pm EDT (UTC-4 hours) 6:00:00 pm CDT (UTC-5 hours) 4:00:00 pm PDT (UTC-7 hours) 1:00:00 pm HST (UTC-10 hours) PLEASE NOTE: You need only to register for the Thursday, April 11, 2024 session—the first of four sessions. Registration closes Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at 7pm EDST (UTC-4). What's the cost? $100. We hope that you will consider making a donation via Eventbrite registration of $100 to help cover the costs of the learning series. If this creates financial hardship, feel free to donate an amount that is appropriate for you—no one will be turned away due to inability to pay. Likewise, if you’d like to donate a bit more to help cover the cost of another participant, we would be very grateful. What should I expect? Estimated time commitment for the entire series including the readings and videos is approximately 14 hours. The learning series provides an introduction to the Dock C. Bracy Center’s understanding and approach to eradicating racism. Sessions include videos, articles, small group discussions and short presentations designed with adult learning concepts. Participants are expected to attend all four sessions of the learning series—four consecutive weeks, two hour live group discussions and pre-work. Each session includes pre-work, to be completed in advance of the session, which provides participants a common experience to enhance small group discussions and complements the Center’s presentations. Following completion of the learning series participants will have the opportunity to continue their learning through the Finding Your Voice Program. For questions, please us our contact form.

This four session learning series is delivered virtually over four consecutive weeks. Each week, there is required pre-work and a two hour live group discussion. What are the goals of the learning series? Assist participants in understanding the complexity, and the simplicity, of racism using critical thinking, self-reflection, and communication. Connect this to an understanding of other systems of oppression. Create a safe, healing learning environment for participants to learn, grow, and explore racism in our society, and in ourselves. Begin to develop implementable strategies to address/repair the harm racism has caused. Introduce the Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation and offer a path forward. Participant Commitments To do all pre-work before attending class. To attend all sessions in their entirety (if there is a problem, let us know). To being fully present and engaged in class. To take responsibility for your learning. All these commitments are essential to your learning, the group process, and the success of this program. When is the February 2024 learning series? The Complexity of Systemic Racism (Session #1), Thursday, February 1, 2024, 12-2 pm EST (UTC-5) Institutional Racism & White Privilege (Session #2), Thursday, February 8, 2024, 12-2 pm EST (UTC-5) Building Conversational Skills for Challenging Racism (Session #3), Thursday, February 15, 2024, 12-2 pm EST (UTC-5) Taking Action Making Change (Session #4), Thursday, February 22, 2024, 12-2 pm EST (UTC-5) Sessions for this series begin promptly at: 12:00:00 pm EST (UTC-5 hours) 11:00:00 am CST (UTC-6 hours) 9:00:00 am PST (UTC-8 hours) 7:00:00 am HST (UTC-10 hours) PLEASE NOTE: You need only to register for the Thursday, February 1, 2024 session—the first of four sessions. Registration closes Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 7pm EST (UTC-5). What's the cost? $100. We hope that you will consider making a donation via Eventbrite registration of $100 to help cover the costs of the learning series. If this creates financial hardship, feel free to donate an amount that is appropriate for you—no one will be turned away due to inability to pay. Likewise, if you’d like to donate a bit more to help cover the cost of another participant, we would be very grateful. What should I expect? Estimated time commitment for the entire series including the readings and videos is approximately 14 hours. The learning series provides an introduction to the Dock C. Bracy Center’s understanding and approach to eradicating racism. Sessions include videos, articles, small group discussions and short presentations designed with adult learning concepts. Participants are expected to attend all four sessions of the learning series—four consecutive weeks, two hour live group discussions and pre-work. Each session includes pre-work, to be completed in advance of the session, which provides participants a common experience to enhance small group discussions and complements the Center’s presentations. Following completion of the learning series participants will have the opportunity to continue their learning through the Finding Your Voice Program. For questions, please us our contact form.

Speaker: Ric Murphy, Educator, Historian, Lecturer, and Award Winning Author Please join us via Zoom on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, 7-9 pm EDT (UTC-4) for Let's Talk Series: The Arrival of the First Africans in America to their Descendants in the Revolutionary War. Documented Africans arrived on the shores of English America in August 1619. Their contributions sustained the earliest days of the English colonies, and in the dawn of the American Revolution, Americans of African descent heard the patriotic call for liberty. From noted author and documentarian Ric Murphy explores the untold story of America’s Arrival of the First Africans and the legacy they left behind. Ric Murphy is an educator, historian, lecturer, and award winning author, including the highly acclaimed Freedom Road. Ric was a Senior Executive Fellow at Harvard University, Kennedy School of Government; and he has a Masters in Urban Affairs from Boston University, and a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Massachusetts. Mr. Murphy has served in elected and appointed positions within state and local governments, and has taught and lectured at the post secondary level. He has served as Chairman of the Board of several private and community based organizations; served on numerous national, local and not-for-profit Boards of Directors; served on countless Advisory Boards to community based organizations and not-for-profits; and has received numerous awards for his public activism and community work. He was born in Boston, Massachusetts, and his family lineage dates to the earliest colonial periods of Plymouth, Massachusetts, and of Jamestown, Virginia. His family lineage has been evaluated and accepted by the Daughters of the American Revolution, the National Society of the Sons of Colonial New England, the Sons of the American Revolution, Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War, and the Society of the First African Families of English America. In his writings, Murphy explores the roles and rich contributions made by African Americans in United States history. He lives and works in Washington, D.C.. Before the Event Although not required to attend this event, we suggest the following materials: Documentary: Arrival of the First African Americans in English America (Verity Media, 2023) [https://arrivalfirstafricans.vhx.tv/] Book: Arrival of The First Africans in Virginia (History Press, 2020)  [https://bookshop.org/p/books/arrival-of-the-first-africans-in-virginia-ric-murphy/14352584?ean=9781467145985] Book: Section 27 and Freedman’s Village (McFarland and Company, Inc., 2020) [https://bookshop.org/p/books/section-27-and-freedman-s-village-in-arlington-national-cemetery-the-african-american-history-of-america-s-most-hallowed-ground-ric-murphy/10334612?ean=9781476677309] Book: Biography of RADM Larry Chambers, USN (McFarland and Company, Inc., 2018)  [https://bookshop.org/p/books/rear-admiral-larry-chambers-usn-first-african-american-to-command-an-aircraft-carrier-ric-murphy/10314874?ean=9781476667270] Book: Freedom Road: An American Family Saga from Jamestown to World War (Franklin Pearson Publishing, 2019)  [https://bookshop.org/p/books/freedom-road-an-american-family-saga-from-jamestown-to-world-war-ric-murphy/8647230?ean=9780578486024]. Where and how you choose to spend money has power. Please consider purchasing books from a black-owned bookstore. All registered participants will have access to a brief pre-event survey that allows questions to be submitted to our speaker. During the Event This is a webinar style event. All registered participants will have the opportunity to submit questions to our speaker. Questions will be screened and asked, given the time allowed. After the Event All registered participants will receive a post-event email including a survey and additional resources. A recording of the event will be publicly available on the Dock C. Bracy Center for Human Reconciliation website, in the days following our event. Please join us via Zoom onWednesday, April 17, 2024, 7-9 pm EDT (UTC-4) for Let's Talk Series: The Arrival of the First Africans in America to their Descendants in the Revolutionary War.  Please register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/from-the-arrival-of-the-first-africans-in-america-to-their-descendants-tickets-810765941757?aff=website. Wednesday, April 17, 2024 Boston 7:00 pm EDT (UTC-4) Chicago 6:00 pm CDT (UTC-5) Salt Lake City 5:00 pm MDT (UTC-6) Seattle 4:00 pm PDT (UTC-7) Honolulu 1:00 pm HST (UTC-10 Corresponding UTC (GMT) 23:00 Website: https://www.ricmurphy.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicMurphyBooks/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOqG66xXizX8HETxZ9jQ-6Q?view_as=public Documentary Official Site: https://www.arrivalfirstafricans.com Facebook: Arrival of the First Africans in English America https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091928165129 Twitter: @1stafricans https://twitter.com/1stafricans Instagram: @arrivalfirstafricans https://www.instagram.com/arrivalfirstafricans

Wednesday, March 27, 2024, 7-9pm EDT (UTC-4) The Dock C. Bracy Center’s Reading for Understanding monthly book discussions are free and have two requirements: Read the book and make time for the discussion. Reading for Understanding: Free Monthly Virtual Book Discussions to Promote Reading, Ongoing Learning and Critical Conversations Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James Facilitated by Sabrina & Nicole Bookstore: Reparations Club, Los Angeles, California, https://rep.club Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the realms of fantasy and folklore in our upcoming virtual book discussion featuring Marlon James' epic masterpiece, "Black Leopard, Red Wolf." About the Book "Black Leopard, Red Wolf" takes readers on a gripping adventure through a fantastical African-inspired landscape. Marlon James weaves a tapestry of myth, magic, and mystery, introducing us to unforgettable characters and a world brimming with both peril and wonder. Join us as we explore the intricacies of this richly imagined tale and delve into the themes that make it a literary tour de force. Discussion Highlights Unpacking the intricate world-building and mythology of the novel Analyzing the complex characters and their relationships Exploring the themes of identity, power, and storytelling Discussing the impact of Afrofuturism in contemporary literature Virtual Platform The discussion will take place on Zoom, providing a convenient and inclusive space for participants to share their perspectives and engage in meaningful dialogue. Registered participants will login to their Eventbrite account to access this virtual event via the event page. Facilitators Sabrina and Nicole will guide the discussion, encouraging participants to share their thoughts, interpretations, and questions, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas. Registration To participate in this insightful book discussion, please register by https://www.eventbrite.com/e/757308338627. Registration is free and by donation, and all are welcome to join this enriching conversation. Support black-owned bookstores Where and how you choose to spend money has power. Shop Reparations Club, Los Angeles, California, https://rep.club or or visit African American Literature Book Club, https://aalbc.com/bookstores/list.php to find a black-owned bookstore in your area.