Racial Identity Development

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Quiz Questions

1.
How do you identify racially?
- A.
  European-descent/White-passing/White-identifying
- B.
  Black, Indigenous, Latino/a/x, AAPI, Person of Color
2.
Choose the response that feels most in resonance, when you think about the ways in which race has had an impact on your lived experience.
- A.
  I believe our society focuses too much on race, and I was taught not to see color, leading me to feel that those who claim racism are just un-empowered and lazy.
- B.
  I acknowledge America's awful history with slavery, but I believe that despite occasional racism, anyone can succeed in life through hard work, regardless of their race.
- C.
  The racist events we see in the media are awful, but I feel frustrated that people of color focus on race, as it only creates more division and won't lead us anywhere.
- D.
  I feel incredibly duped by my education and can't believe it took me this long to recognize the truth about our history with race, leaving me confused about why most of my friends and family don't see it and feeling really alone.
- E.
  I recognize my privilege as a white person, which makes me feel uncomfortable, but I'm starting to learn how to use it to help dismantle the 3D reality of racial separation and inequality.
- F.
  I recognize my privilege as a white person and, rather than feeling guilt, I carry a deep appreciation for the life my soul chose and a strong desire to dismantle oppressive systems while embracing all parts of my identity, which helps me love all parts of others, no matter how different.
3.
Choose the response that feels most in resonance, when you think about your conscious awareness of your race.
- A.
  Before race became a huge issue in the media, I was unaware of my whiteness as a racial identity and feel annoyed when people suggest I should focus on race, as I see myself as a human being, not just white.
- B.
  I recognize my race as white, but it's not an identity I personally hold; rather, it's been imposed on me. I've had struggles as a white person, and I don't feel like I've "got it better" because I'm white.
- C.
  I recognize my race as white, and while I acknowledge the harm of the patriarchy, I don’t see what my white race has to do with the patriarchy, and I believe continued focus on race by people of color perpetuates division in our society.
- D.
  I am acutely aware of my whiteness and I try to distance myself from any white person who isn't actively confronting racism at every opportunity; I feel a constant sense of inadequacy and guilt about not doing enough as a white person.
- E.
  I am acutely aware of my whiteness, often feeling guilt about it, yet actively seeking communities of fellow white individuals who use their privilege to dismantle harmful racist systems, which helps alleviate that guilt.
- F.
  I recognize that my white race is just one aspect of my identity; beyond that, I embrace my depth, enabling me to see the humanity in others and aspire to build a world free from injustice.
4.
Choose the response that feels most in resonance, when you reflect on your race, and it's impact on your spirituality.
- A.
  My spiritual community is predominately white, and I’ve never really thought about that being an issue.
- B.
  I strongly believe that my spiritual beliefs transcend race, and thus, focusing on it only serves to divide and disempower us.
- C.
  I’m really struggling with how my race intersects with my spirituality, and it has me questioning previously unquestioned beliefs, which often sends me on a spiral of inaction.
- D.
  Acknowledging my complicity in racism, I'm spiritually processing guilt and shame, striving to forgive myself and others while channeling these emotions into meaningful action for racial justice.
- E.
  Deepening my spiritual practices rooted in justice and interconnectedness, I struggle to stay grounded and focused as I sustain my commitment to racial equity through long-term engagement and advocacy.
- F.
  Deepening my spiritual practices rooted in justice and interconnectedness, I sustain my commitment to racial equity through long-term engagement and advocacy.
5.
Choose the response that feels most in resonance, with regards to your feelings and emotions with race/racism education.
- A.
  I don’t spend my time on worldly issues like race, as I see them as a waste of one’s time and potential.
- B.
  I feel incredibly exhausted, and if I’m being honest, annoyed by all of the discourse surrounding race and racism.
- C.
  I'm struggling to understand the recent increase in worldly violence and the emphasis on race and racism; I believe it's counterproductive to focus our efforts on a few bad actors.
- D.
  After reading numerous books and watching countless documentaries, I fear our world is deteriorating, overwhelmed by the enormity of what I need to learn and contribute positively to society, sometimes leaving me wanting to retreat indefinitely.
- E.
  Having immersed myself in numerous books and documentaries on race and racism, I grasp the complexity of these issues, feeling overwhelmed yet motivated to define my role in shaping the world I envision.
- F.
  Recognizing the importance of educating oneself on the historical context of race and racism, I prioritize personal healing before action, integrating this approach into my advocacy work and finding hope in the process.
6.
Which response best aligns with how racial justice advocacy fits into the communities you're part of?
- A.
  Despite valuing community, I avoid those focused on racial equity and justice, finding them divisive and unsafe; however, my predominantly white community remains open to individuals of all races.
- B.
  I view communities centered on race and racism as perpetuating racism itself; guided by a commitment to colorblindness, I engage in all communities with a focus on treating others as I wish to be treated, emphasizing unity over division.
- C.
  I resist joining communities that make me feel guilty for being white, questioning the importance of seeking justice-focused communities when my priority is finding one that offers love and acceptance regardless of race.
- D.
  Since becoming more vocal about race, I've lost a lot of my community and feel uncertain about where this journey will take me; I recognize the need to forge friendships with people of color but am apprehensive about starting and potentially unintentionally causing offense.
- E.
  I'm starting to find advocacy communities, but honestly, it remains deeply uncomfortable for me to be called out, and I struggle to manage being confronted with my own privilege without spiraling for a long time afterward.
- F.
  I actively participate in a community grounded in love and justice, celebrating the rich complexities of humanity—embracing both challenges and resilience—which I acknowledge as essential in shaping a new, equitable human experience.
7.
Which response best reflects the balance between your involvement in healing practices and advocacy?
- A.
  I struggle with healing work, seeing it as a "fad" where people dwell in self-pity, and while I value self-care, I believe in hard work for success and wish others would accept this reality as I have, because it's not that bad.
- B.
  While I believe in the importance of personal healing, the more I invest in my own journey, the less I understand why we need to collectively re-hash historical traumas like the transatlantic slave trade and the mass genocide of indigenous peoples, as it seems counterproductive to healing and has the risk of continuing to manifest our current reality of oppression.
- C.
  While I believe in the importance of both healing and advocacy practices, I find many advocacy spaces overly focused on division, which is counterproductive; it's crucial to invest in healing and advocacy in diverse environments that don't vilify white people, as feeling bad for being white in such spaces feels like reverse racism to me.
- D.
  I find it difficult to prioritize my own healing when racism has disadvantaged people of color, feeling guilty for investing in self-care while many face daily discrimination, so I focus more on advocacy work, believing it to be my duty as a white person.
- E.
  I'm beginning to realize that starting with my own healing, as a white person with European ancestry, is critical for maintaining sustainable and effective advocacy practices, as neglecting self-care can perpetuate white supremacy through traits like perfectionism, patriarchal values, and paternalism rather than dismantling them.
- F.
  While I believe this work is a lifelong journey, I trust my intuition regarding my energy investment in both personal healing and advocacy, embracing rest as an act of resistance against patriarchal and white supremacist values like meritocracy, perfectionism, capitalism, and the notion that work defines worth.
8.
How often do you use your race-privilege to challenge racial injustices?
- A.
  I don't recognize myself as having race privilege, but I believe in standing up for the "little guy
- B.
  I find it difficult to recognize the privileges I have because of my race, as I feel I've worked hard for everything I have and believe everyone can achieve the same if they work hard enough.
- C.
  I struggle to recognize my race privilege in real-time, often feeling guilty afterward about interactions involving race, wishing I had responded differently or stood my ground more firmly.
- D.
  I am keenly conscious of my race privilege and consistently ready to assist people of color, viewing it as my responsibility; not fulfilling this duty leaves me feeling unsettled about myself.
- E.
  I am acutely aware of my race privilege, and though I understand I did not create the construct of race, I recognize my capacity to use this societal-given "power" to foster communities that acknowledge the harm of social constructs like race, envisioning a world where equality is bestowed upon all simply for being human.
9.
How comfortable are you in discussing your racial identity and experiences with others?
- A.
  I don’t discuss it.
- B.
  Incredibly uncomfortable.
- C.
  Minor discomfort.
- D.
  Little to no discomfort.
10.
How do you react to witnessing or experiencing racial injustice?
- A.
  The same way I would react to anyone being mean to another person.
- B.
  Feel upset but don’t say anything.
- C.
  Speak up when I feel brave enough.
- D.
  Call it out when there's opportunity for growth and transformation.
11.
Which response best reflects the presence of racial diversity and discussions on racial equity in your daily environments?
- A.
  I interact more frequently with people who share the same race, but to be honest, I’ve never really thought about how racially diverse my communities are.
- B.
  I interact more frequently with people who share the same race, and that makes sense because all of us tend to feel most comfortable in spaces where people share the same experiences and values.
- C.
  I interact more frequently with people who share the same race, but I feel like I don’t belong in those spaces anymore, and I am looking for communities of color to be in community with.
- D.
  While many of my community looks like me, I actively seek out racially diverse experiences.
- E.
  I comprehend the historical context of race in my country, so it's not unexpected that I tend to gravitate towards predominantly white spaces, but through deliberate effort over time, I increasingly find myself in racially diverse environments because that's where my community and friends reside.
12.
Which response best aligns with your understanding and/or recognition of white norms?
- A.
  I'm starting to notice how I unconsciously uphold white norms, like valuing certain standards of beauty and success without fully understanding their impact.
- B.
  I'm becoming aware of how pervasive white norms are in shaping my experiences, especially when I encounter discrimination and begin questioning my own identity and beliefs.
- C.
  I'm acutely aware of how deeply ingrained white norms are, especially as I feel anger towards injustices and struggle to trust in predominantly white spaces.
- D.
  I'm actively seeking out BIPOC communities because I've realized how isolating it can be to conform to white norms that don't align with my cultural background and values.
- E.
  I'm learning to navigate my identity in ways that embrace both my cultural heritage and collaborative efforts with supportive white allies who challenge and dismantle harmful norms.
- F.
  I've developed a keen awareness of white norms and prioritize working within diverse, equitable communities while valuing rest as essential in resisting systemic pressures.
13.
Choose the response that best describes your experiences with racism.
- A.
  I remember times in my childhood where I experienced a white child calling me (or other people of color) bad names, or being mean to them, however as I’ve gotten older, I haven’t had that experience with white people, and I trust that will always be the case, if I'm honest and hardworking.
- B.
  I've begun encountering instances of racism, prompting me to reflect on past experiences where I may have unknowingly witnessed or experienced it; yet, at times, I question whether my heightened awareness of racism causes me to overanalyze situations and doubt their racial implications.
- C.
  I've encountered numerous incidents of racism that have fueled my anger and deepened my distrust of racial dynamics in society, highlighting the pervasive inequities.
- D.
  I actively seek community among BIPOC groups because experiencing and/or witnessing racism has starkly shown me the unfairness in racial dynamics, prompting me to seek solidarity and support.
- E.
  I've had positive experiences working with supportive white allies who challenge racism, which has helped me integrate my experiences of racism into a broader understanding of racial dynamics and fairness in society, as well as given me confidence to speak up when I experience or witness racism happening.
- F.
  My experiences with racism have strengthened my commitment to equitable community building within racially diverse groups, prioritizing fairness and justice in navigating societal racial dynamics.
14.
Do you feel anger or distrust towards white people?
- A.
  I’ve definitely felt anger and distrust towards people, but I haven’t thought about it in terms of their race.
- B.
  Absolutely, I avoid predominately white spaces at all costs.
- C.
  Occasionally, and I struggle to unpack my feelings of anger and distrust.
- D.
  I feel confident in my ability to discern authenticity, and am able to have compassion for folks in different stages of their racial identity development.
15.
How safe do you feel in predominantly white spaces?
- A.
  I usually feel safe in predominantly white spaces, though I'm starting to question if that safety comes at the expense of ignoring racial dynamics that affect others.
- B.
  I often feel uneasy in predominantly white spaces, especially after experiencing or witnessing racism. It's challenging to trust my safety in these environments.
- C.
  I generally don't feel safe in predominantly white spaces due to ongoing racial inequities and my heightened awareness of systemic biases that affect BIPOC.
- D.
  I feel safer in BIPOC-centered spaces where I can connect with others who share similar experiences and values, rather than in predominantly white spaces where I often feel isolated.
- E.
  I feel more secure in predominantly white spaces when I'm collaborating with supportive allies who actively challenge racism and promote inclusivity.
- F.
  I navigate predominantly white spaces confidently, prioritizing equitable interactions and advocating for inclusive practices that foster a sense of safety for all.
16.
Which response best reflects the presence of racial diversity and discussions on racial equity in your daily environments?
- A.
  I haven't really thought about the racial diversity of my everyday spaces. It's something I'm becoming more aware of as I reflect on the norms and dynamics that shape my surroundings.
- B.
  I'm increasingly noticing the lack of racial diversity in my everyday spaces, which makes me question how inclusive and equitable these environments truly are.
- C.
  I avoid predominately white spaces at all costs.
- D.
  I actively seek out everyday spaces that prioritize racial diversity and inclusivity, where I can feel a sense of belonging and connection with people who share diverse backgrounds.
- E.
  I value everyday spaces that embrace racial diversity and offer opportunities for meaningful interactions across different cultural backgrounds and perspectives. And, sometimes, being held in space with other people of color is what my soul desires for love and belonging and connection.
- F.
  I strive to create everyday spaces that are racially diverse and inclusive, where everyone feels welcomed and valued for their unique contributions and experiences. And, sometimes, being held in space with other people of color is what my soul desires for love and belonging and connection.
17.
Select the response that best represents your journey in exploring your racial identity.
- A.
  I'm starting to think about how my racial identity intersects with other aspects of who I am, like my cultural heritage or personal values. It's a journey of discovery for me.
- B.
  I'm actively exploring, in solitude, how my racial identity intersects with other parts of my identity, especially as I navigate experiences of discrimination and seek to understand myself more deeply.
- C.
  My identity as a person of color is fundamental to my being, and I'm currently drawn to spaces that celebrate our worth as people of color, yet I often encounter resistance from white individuals for embracing this aspect of my identity.
- D.
  I'm deeply engaged in exploring how my racial identity intersects with other dimensions of my identity within BIPOC communities. It's empowering to recognize and celebrate these intersections.
- E.
  I actively, and frequently explore and integrate the intersections of my racial identity with other facets of my identity, ensuring my advocacy work is inclusive and grounded in a holistic understanding of who I am.
18.
How often do you prioritize rest and self-care as part of your resistance to racial oppression?
- A.
  I struggle to consistently prioritize rest and self-care, which I attribute more to the universal human experience rather than one's racial background.
- B.
  It's hard to make time for rest, as I feel like I have to work harder than white colleagues/friends, and it drains me.
- C.
  I find it really hard to prioritize self-care and rest while I’m fighting to be heard and to be seen and valued in a society that does not recognize my worth.
- D.
  Self-care and rest are integral parts of my advocacy journey. I prioritize these practices regularly to ensure I have the energy and resilience to contribute effectively to equity and justice efforts.
19.
Choose the response that feels most in resonance, when you reflect on your race, and it's impact on your spirituality.
- A.
  My spiritual community is predominately white, and I’ve never really thought about that being an issue.
- B.
  I’m really struggling with how my race intersects with my spirituality, and it has me questioning previously unquestioned beliefs, which often sends me on a spiral of inaction.
- C.
  I am currently engaged in the process of deconstructing and decolonizing my spiritual beliefs, which brings about feelings of anger, confusion, and overwhelm.
- D.
  Deepening my spiritual practices rooted in justice and interconnectedness, I struggle to stay grounded and focused as I sustain my commitment to racial equity through long-term engagement and advocacy.
- E.
  Deepening my spiritual practices rooted in justice and interconnectedness, I sustain my commitment to racial equity through long-term engagement and advocacy.
- F.
  I am enriching my spiritual practices to align with justice and interconnectedness, while also honoring and integrating the spiritual rituals and traditions of my ancestors into my daily spiritual life.
20.
How comfortable are you in discussing your racial identity and experiences with others?
- A.
  I don’t discuss it.
- B.
  Incredibly uncomfortable.
- C.
  Minor discomfort.
- D.
  Little to no discomfort.
21.
What do you do when you witness or experience racial injustice?
- A.
  While I have experienced and witnessed disrespect, I haven’t ever attributed that to one’s race.
- B.
  Feel upset but don’t say anything.
- C.
  Call it out, which boils my blood and takes me a long time to recover.
- D.
  Speak up when I feel brave enough.
- E.
  Call it out when there's opportunity for growth and transformation.

Quiz Outcomes

1.
The Unaware Conformer
It looks like you're in the early stages of waking up to the realities of racism and understanding your own racial identity. You feel a sense of safety and comfort within white social norms. You might often find yourself saying things like, “I don’t see race,” and without realizing it, you've been conforming to white norms because they just seem like the standard. Your journey begins by noticing and questioning the norms and beliefs you previously took for granted. This is a period of initial awareness, where you start to recognize the systemic nature of racism and your role within it. This is totally normal, and it’s where many of us start. While you may struggle with the discomfort of realizing that your understanding of race and equality has been limited, this is a crucial first step towards deeper awareness and change.Examples: You might say things like, “I don’t see race,” or assume everyone has the same opportunities. These are common thoughts when you’re just beginning to understand the complexities of race and privilege.Emotions: At this stage, you probably feel safe and comfortable within these norms. But as you start to notice and question the beliefs you've held, you might also feel confused, uncomfortable, or even defensive. It’s okay – this discomfort is part of the process of growth.Intention: Try to start noticing and questioning the norms and beliefs you’ve always taken for granted. This means becoming more aware of how racial identities, including your own, shape experiences and opportunities.Spiritual Practice: A good place to start is with some meditation on privilege and societal norms. This can help you reflect on your own position within the social hierarchy and understand the privileges you might not have noticed before.Practical Practice: Engage in some honest conversations about race with a trusted friend or colleague who knows more about the topic. Also, consider reading some introductory materials on systemic racism. This will help you build a solid foundation and move from unawareness to a more informed and active stance against racism.You’re taking an important first step, and it’s a journey that’s worth every moment. Remember, it’s okay to feel what you’re feeling – just keep moving forward with an open heart and mind.
2.
The Denial Dismisser
It seems like you're at a stage where you might consciously reject the existence of racism and often dismiss the experiences of people of color (POC). You might find yourself encouraging POC to assimilate to white norms, not realizing that these norms are biased. This stage can be marked by feelings of anger, being overwhelmed, and surprise when confronted with racial issues. It’s a tough spot to be in, but recognizing it is an important step.Examples: You might say things like, “Racism doesn’t exist anymore,” or “POC should just work harder.” These statements come from a place of not fully understanding the systemic nature of racism and how deeply it affects people’s lives.Emotions: You might feel angry, overwhelmed, or surprised when racial issues are brought up. These emotions are valid and part of the process of grappling with a complex and challenging topic.Intention: Try to open up to the possibility that your understanding might be limited. This isn’t about blaming yourself; it’s about expanding your awareness and learning more.Spiritual Practice: Reflective journaling can be really helpful. Take some time to write about your experiences with race and any moments that challenged your current beliefs. This practice can help you process your feelings and gain new insights.Practical Practice: Consider attending a racial equity workshop or watching documentaries on racial issues. These resources can provide you with a deeper understanding and help you see things from different perspectives.You’re on a journey of growth, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. Being open to learning and understanding more is a powerful intention. Keep going with an open heart and mind.
3.
The Resistant Retreater
It sounds like you might be in a place where acknowledging racism feels particularly difficult. You might feel the “price” of doing so is too high, leading you to retreat and sometimes blame people of color (POC) for racial disharmony. It’s a challenging space to be in, but recognizing it is a step toward growth.Examples: You might think or say things like, “Can’t we all just get along?” These thoughts stem from the discomfort of facing the complexities of racism and can lead to undervaluing your own power to effect change.Emotions: You could be feeling anxious, angry, irritable, frustrated, or even numb. These emotions are normal when confronting something as challenging as systemic racism.Intention: The key here is to start recognizing and confronting your internal resistance. This isn’t about blame but about understanding and growing.Spiritual Practice: Guided meditations focused on empathy and understanding can be really helpful. These practices can help you develop a deeper sense of connection and compassion for others, as well as for yourself.Practical Practice: Try participating in small group discussions about race and privilege. Engaging in these conversations can provide new insights and help you feel less isolated in your journey.You’re at an important point in your path, and it’s okay to feel what you’re feeling. Taking steps to understand and confront your internal resistance is courageous and transformative. Keep moving forward with openness and kindness toward yourself.
4.
The Awakening Guilt-Bearer
It seems like you’re at a stage where you’ve started to wake up to the reality of racism and recognize your own participation or complicity in it. This awakening often brings feelings of guilt, and you might find yourself distancing from those who are still in earlier stages of understanding. This is a crucial and powerful step in your journey.Examples: You might find yourself removing from racially insensitive environments or feeling uncomfortable in conversations that you once tolerated. These actions are part of your growing awareness and desire for change.Emotions: You could be feeling a mix of guilt, shame, impatience, anxiety, and sometimes even hopelessness. These emotions are a natural part of the process as you come to terms with the realities of racism and your role in it.Intention: The goal here is to move from feelings of guilt to taking constructive action. Recognizing your power to make a difference is a key part of this stage.Spiritual Practice: Practicing forgiveness for yourself and others can be incredibly healing. It’s important to remember that guilt is just a step on the journey, not the destination. Forgive yourself for past ignorance and extend that forgiveness to others as well.Practical Practice: Consider volunteering with organizations focused on racial justice. This can be a practical way to channel your feelings into positive action and make a tangible difference in the fight against racism.You’re making significant strides, and it’s okay to feel what you’re feeling. Moving from guilt to action is a powerful transition, and every step you take matters. Keep going with compassion and determination.
5.
The Emerging Activist
It looks like you’re stepping into the role of an emerging activist, which is an exciting and courageous stage. You’ve started taking action based on your newfound awareness of racism. You might be reading books, attending workshops, and seeking out resources. However, you might also find yourself avoiding situations that challenge your white privilege because they can be really uncomfortable. That’s completely normal and part of the process.Examples: You’re likely attending workshops and engaging with educational materials but might retreat when conversations get tough or when you feel your privilege being directly challenged.Emotions: You might feel a mix of discomfort, fear of losing friends or family, and a tendency to avoid these hard conversations. These feelings are valid and expected as you navigate this new territory.Intention: The key here is to commit to ongoing learning and to face discomfort head-on. Growth happens outside of our comfort zones, and your willingness to engage is already a huge step.Spiritual Practice: Regular mindfulness practice can help you stay present with discomfort. This can be as simple as daily meditation or mindful breathing exercises to ground yourself when things get tough.Practical Practice: Consider creating a support group of like-minded individuals who are also on this journey. Having a community to hold each other accountable can make a big difference and provide mutual support as you all navigate these challenges together.You’re on a powerful path, and it’s okay to feel what you’re feeling. Keep pushing forward with courage and commitment. Every step you take is making a difference.
6.
The Integrative Ally
It looks like you’ve reached the stage of being an integrative ally, which is a powerful and inspiring place to be. You’ve come to fully realize your identity and are using your white privilege to actively combat oppression. You understand and respect where others are in their racial identity development and are committed to long-term engagement in racial justice work.Examples: You’re likely actively advocating for policy changes, supporting marginalized communities, and creating inclusive environments in both your personal and professional life. Your actions are grounded in a deep understanding of racial dynamics and a commitment to justice.Emotions: You probably feel a sense of confidence, groundedness, and a strong commitment to your work. These emotions are indicative of your solid foundation and dedication to making a difference.Intention: Your intention now is to sustain long-term engagement in racial justice work. This involves continuously learning, growing, and adapting your strategies to remain effective and impactful.Spiritual Practice: Deepening your spiritual practices that emphasize interconnectedness and justice can be incredibly nourishing. Practices such as meditation, prayer, or community rituals that focus on these themes can help sustain your energy and commitment.Practical Practice: Develop long-term strategies for promoting racial equity in both your personal and professional spheres. This could involve creating diversity and inclusion initiatives at work, mentoring others, or supporting grassroots organizations.You’ve made incredible progress, and it’s okay to recognize and celebrate your achievements. Keep pushing forward with confidence and compassion. Your sustained commitment is making a real difference in the world.
7.
(B) The Unaware Conformer
It looks like you're in the early stages of understanding the impact of racism and your own racial identity. Right now, you might find yourself unknowingly ascribing to white norms, believing them to be positive and good. This stage is often marked by a lack of awareness about the deeper impacts of racism and how it shapes our identities.Examples: You might notice things like valuing straight hair over natural textures or unconsciously prioritizing white standards of beauty and success. These are common experiences as we start to wake up to the realities around us.Emotions: At this stage, there’s often a sense of obliviousness to the impact of these norms on our lives and identities. This isn’t your fault; it’s a part of the journey many of us go through.Intention: Your goal here is to begin recognizing and questioning the internalized norms that you’ve held. This is a powerful and important step towards reclaiming your identity and understanding the broader picture.Spiritual Practice: Spend some time in self-reflection on your cultural heritage and identity. Connecting with your roots and understanding where you come from can be deeply grounding and enlightening.Practical Practice: Engage with media and literature by BIPOC authors. Their perspectives can offer valuable insights and help you see things from a new angle, providing both education and inspiration.You’re on a meaningful path of self-discovery and growth. It’s okay to take your time and move at your own pace. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey – we’re in this together.
8.
(B) The Discerning Doubter
It looks like you're at a stage where you’re starting to experience critical incidents of racism and realizing that the world isn’t equitable by race. This can be a really tough and confusing time. You might find yourself doubting your own experiences and beginning to distrust white people as a result. These feelings are valid and part of the journey toward understanding and reclaiming your identity.Examples: You might start noticing discriminatory behavior in public spaces or experiencing microaggressions that you hadn’t seen before. These moments can be shocking and deeply unsettling.Emotions: At this stage, it’s common to feel a mix of confusion, surprise, and anger. You’re beginning to see the world in a new light, and it’s okay to feel a range of emotions as you process these experiences.Intention: The key here is to start trusting your personal experiences and seek out supportive communities that can validate and affirm what you’re going through. You’re not alone in this, and finding others who understand can make a big difference.Spiritual Practice: Engaging in affirmation practices can help validate your experiences and strengthen your sense of self. This could involve daily affirmations that acknowledge and honor your feelings and experiences.Practical Practice: Consider joining racial affinity groups for support and validation. These groups can provide a safe space to share your experiences, learn from others, and find solidarity in a community that understands what you’re going through.You’re on a courageous path of discovery and healing. It’s okay to take your time and feel what you’re feeling. Remember, you have the strength and resilience to navigate this journey, and there are communities ready to support you.
9.
(B) The Righteous Anger-Bearer
It looks like you’re in a stage where you’re noticing more and more racial inequities, and this awareness is bringing up a lot of anger towards white people. You might not feel safe around white people and find it hard to trust them. These feelings are completely valid and part of the process of awakening to the realities of racial injustice.Examples: You might find yourself avoiding interactions with white colleagues or feeling a strong sense of frustration when you witness racial inequities. These reactions are a natural response to the injustices you’re seeing more clearly now.Emotions: This stage often comes with a mix of frustration, anger, and worry. It’s okay to feel these emotions deeply—they are a powerful response to real and painful experiences.Intention: The key here is to allow yourself to fully experience and process these emotions. It’s important to honor your feelings and give yourself the space to express them.Spiritual Practice: Engage in practices that center on emotional healing and expression. This could include activities like journaling, art, or movement that help you process and release your emotions.Practical Practice: Consider attending events and gatherings focused on BIPOC empowerment and healing. These spaces can offer a sense of community and support, helping you to feel understood and less alone in your journey.You’re in a powerful place of awakening and transformation. It’s okay to take your time and feel everything that comes up. Remember, your feelings are valid, and there are communities ready to support and empower you.
10.
(B) The Community Seeker
It seems like you’re at a stage where you’re actively seeking community and connection, especially within BIPOC spaces. This is a significant and empowering step in your journey toward healing and empowerment. You’re recognizing the importance of finding solidarity and support among those who share similar experiences and understand your perspective.Examples: You might be actively seeking out BIPOC-centered events, gatherings, or online communities where you can connect with others who share your background and experiences. These spaces can provide a sense of belonging and understanding that is crucial for healing and growth.Emotions: This stage can bring up feelings of hopefulness, relief, and excitement as you discover new connections and relationships within your community. It’s a positive and affirming experience to find solidarity and support.Intention: Your intention here is to deepen your sense of belonging and connection within BIPOC communities. By surrounding yourself with people who understand your experiences, you can find strength and resilience.Spiritual Practice: Engage in practices that foster community and connection, such as participating in group activities, sharing stories, or engaging in collective rituals. These practices can deepen your sense of solidarity and mutual support.Practical Practice: Actively seek out BIPOC-focused events and gatherings that promote empowerment and healing. These spaces can provide opportunities for learning, growth, and collective action toward justice and equality.You’re on a powerful path of seeking and building community. It’s okay to embrace this journey fully and to celebrate the connections you’re making along the way. Remember, you’re not alone—your community is here to support you.
11.
(B) The Holistic Integrator
It looks like you’re at a stage where you’re beginning to have positive experiences with white allies who are actively engaged in anti-racism work. This can be a transformative and empowering experience as you navigate the complexities of your identity and the intersections that shape who you are.Examples: You might find yourself collaborating on projects with white allies who are committed to dismantling racism and promoting equity. These collaborations can broaden your understanding of racial dynamics and foster meaningful partnerships.Emotions: This stage often brings feelings of empowerment and an expanded understanding of yourself beyond just your racial identity. You’re recognizing the richness of your multiple identities and how they intersect to shape your experiences and perspectives.Intention: Your intention here is to embody a holistic sense of self that embraces all aspects of your identity. This includes exploring and celebrating the intersections of race, gender, culture, and more, recognizing the beauty and complexity they bring to your life.Spiritual Practice: Engage in practices that integrate multiple aspects of your identity, such as rituals or reflections that honor and celebrate the diversity within yourself. This can foster a deeper sense of connection and wholeness.Practical Practice: Consider engaging in intersectional advocacy and education. This involves advocating for justice and equity across various dimensions of identity, amplifying marginalized voices, and challenging systems of oppression in all their forms.You’re on a profound journey of integration and empowerment. Embrace the growth and learning that comes with exploring your identities and collaborating with allies who share your commitment to justice and equity.
12.
(B) The Restful Advocate
It seems like you’ve reached a stage where you’re building your capacity to work within racially diverse groups that prioritize equitable community building. This is a significant achievement, as you recognize racism without allowing it to diminish your sense of self-worth. You’re also valuing rest as a crucial act of resistance in the face of ongoing challenges.Examples: You might be leading inclusive initiatives in diverse settings or actively participating in community projects that promote equity and justice. Your actions are grounded in a deep understanding of racial dynamics and a commitment to fostering inclusive spaces.Emotions: This stage often brings feelings of confidence, calm, and a strong sense of purpose. You’re navigating complex issues with resilience and determination, knowing that your efforts contribute to positive change.Intention: Your intention here is to prioritize rest and self-care as acts of resistance. By taking care of yourself, you’re ensuring that you have the energy and resilience to continue advocating for equity and justice over the long term.Spiritual Practice: Engage in restorative practices such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness. These practices can help you recharge and stay grounded amidst the challenges of advocacy work.Practical Practice: Implement self-care routines that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. This could include setting boundaries, practicing gratitude, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy and relaxation.You’re embodying a powerful blend of activism and self-care, recognizing that sustainable change requires both dedication and replenishment. Keep nurturing yourself and advocating for a better, more equitable world.