In our first gathering, we considered a possible format. We discussed it, edited it, and this was the result (we have since adjusted it slightly, this is the current version):
White antiracists monthly check-in group format
[share link to group norms in chat] [share agenda in chat:
Welcome, silent worship (3-5 minutes)
Share quick summary (1-2 sentences) of current focus, tag format
Breakout into small groups ~30 minutes
Group sharing
Close, silent worship ]
Convener opens the gathering with a welcome and invitation to 3-5 minutes of silent worship
Welcome and introductions:
[for the first 2-3 months include names, pronouns, land acknowledgment if so led]
1-2 sentence summary of area of antiracism work focus (each person calls on the next person after sharing)
Break into smaller groups of 2-3 people until 15-20 minutes before close
Individuals share about their anti-racism work (divide time by the number of people):
One person in the small group volunteers to facilitate, keep time, remind us of group norms if needed;
Anyone can choose to “pass” if they prefer not to share;
Each individual will share as they are led, a suggested format might be “what I did this past month, what support I need, what I plan to do;”
Each person will commit to specific antiracism actions for the following month (spoke or unspoken).
After individual sharing in small groups, reconvene full group to share and discuss highlights from small groups
Close with silent worship (3-5 minutes)
The zoom room will be open for about 30 minutes after to finish up conversations that were started in the sharing time…