Tapestry of Faith: Building the World We Dream About: An Anti-racism Multicultural Program

Activity 2: Discovering Whiteness

Activity time: 35 minutes

Materials for Activity

Preparation for Activity

  • Copy Handout 1 for all participants.

Description of Activity

Distribute and read aloud Handout 1, explaining that it is a first person narrative. Invite comments, insights, and observations. Lead a discussion, using these questions as guides:

  • What elements of Gary Howard's story help you get a better understanding of a "White identity"?
  • How might Gary Howard's experiences, which took place in the 1950s, be different today? How might they be the same?

Post a piece of newsprint and title it "White Identity." Invite participants to brainstorm answers to the question, How would you describe a "White identity"? Explain that in a brainstorm, all suggestions and ideas voiced are captured on newsprint with commentary or discussion.