It is crucial for white antiracists to find their stake, or mutual interest, in the struggle for racial and economic justice. That is, white people can identify the way that racism is harmful for everyone, including white people, though in vastly different ways than for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. To sustain commitment, it’s valuable for these white antiracists to anchor in what they have to gain through the fight.

This workshop explores mutual interest, with a focus on its meaning and significance for white people engaged in racial justice work. The session begins with an overview of mutual interest and an exploration of white antiracist motivations, followed by a reflective analysis of how mutual interest aligns and may fail to align with social work ethical principles. The workshop utilizes insights from critical race theory and systems theory to provide a theoretical framework for thinking about mutual interest. Participants will also engage with findings from a study of white members of a large antiracist organization, examining how they express their personal journeys of exploring and relating to their mutual interests. The session will conclude with a practical application, offering participants the opportunity to begin developing their own mutual interest stories. Interactive discussion and Q&A will foster reflection and connection to professional contexts. Presented by Assistant Professor Josal Diebold.

This event is co-sponsored by the National Assocation of Social Workers-New York State's Western Division and the SUNY Fredonia Social Work Program.