Unitarians to host talk on racial inequality Nov. 12

LACONIA — Carol Pierce of Laconia and Rick Huntley of Washington, D.C., authors of "Journeys of Race, Color, & Culture: From Racial Inequality to Equity & Inclusion," will present a dialogue between them and with the audience about such journeys for people of color and white people at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov., 12 at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Laconia, 172 Pleasant St.

"Journeys" was created by a rainbow team of colleagues over many years through the building of relationships of equity among themselves and with friends and clients. The book is based in the history of race in the U.S, bringing what is needed in the present: healing – not punishment, blame or shame. Authentic relationships that acknowledge and bridge the differing experiences of people of color and white people are described. Such understanding is needed for healing our racial divide.

The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s brought laws that focussed on an end to segregation, such as in education, voting rights, and the opening up of public facilities, libraries, banks and some housing. Though much change has held, much is in jeopardy, particularly in our current political climate. Integration that honors cultural diversity is yet to be culturally achieved. That will come with a better understanding of the elements for building cross-cultural relationships. Pierce and Huntley will demonstrate some of the elements of personal journeys that move away from dominant behavior, into a transition that brings equity and inclusion.

Pierce, a white woman, is a retired organization development consultant specializing in the diversity field. She is known for her work over the years in the welcoming of refugees and immigrants in the Lakes Region. Huntley, an African American man, is an organization development consultant who specializes in facilitating change in organizations and leadership across difference. They have been business partners in the firm, newdynamics, for almost 30 years.

Speakers at the "Journey to Racial Equality" program Nov. 12 are Rick Huntley (top) and Carol Pierce (below) with co-author Rianna Moore (left). (Courtesy photo)