In this episode of the Inclusive Minds Podcast, Dr. Carolyn Coker Ross is joined by two remarkable authors, Dr. Janie Victoria Ward and Dr. Becky Thompson. They've co-authored a poignant chapter in the book "Anti-Blackness and the Stories of Authentic Allies: Lived Experiences in the Fight Against Institutionalized Racism," which Dr. Ross proudly co-edited.

Janie and Becky delve into their unique, decades-long cross-racial friendship and professional collaboration. They share the profound insights gained from co-teaching a groundbreaking course at Simmons University, where their openness about racial experiences became the most impactful lesson for their students.

• The Origins of a Deep Friendship: Discover how a moment of shared vulnerability during a campus incident became the catalyst for Janie and Becky's profound connection, transforming a professional acquaintance into a deep bond.
• The "Cost" of True Allyship: Becky sheds light on the often-unseen sacrifices and challenges White allies may face when truly committing to anti-racism work, and why choosing this path ultimately leads to a richer life.
• Understanding Trust and Accountability: Learn what it genuinely means to "have each other's backs" in an interracial friendship, and how identifying and confronting difficult truths—like homophobia or racism—strengthens the bond.

Dr. Delbert Wigfall, a retired pediatric nephrologist, joins Dr. Carolyn Coker Ross to discuss the profound impact of systemic racism on healthcare access and outcomes. Drawing from his extensive career and co-authorship of "Anti-Blackness and the Stories of Authentic Allies," Dr. Wigfall shares powerful insights and real-life examples of the disparities faced by underrepresented minorities in both mental and physical healthcare, including organ transplantation.

This crucial conversation explores the historical roots of these inequities, the importance of advocacy and understanding, and the complexities of achieving true diversity and inclusion in medicine.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding how systemic racism creates barriers to quality healthcare for marginalized communities.
• The significance of lived experiences in fostering empathy and challenging biases.
• The underrepresentation of Black men in medicine and its impact.
• The need for a nuanced understanding of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts.

Welcome to The Inclusive Minds Podcast! Today, we are joined by the insightful Rev. Kris Watson, Esq. one of the authors of the powerful chapter "The Maniacal Imagination and Moral Ineptitude of the Church: The Construction and Sustainment of White Skin Supremacy" from the book "Anti-Blackness and the Stories of Authentic Allies Lived Experiences in the Fight Against Institutionalized Racism."

Rev. Watson, a visionary leader and founder of Nurturing Justice, Inc., brings her unique perspective as a former Assistant District Attorney, certified mediator, skilled facilitator, and Reverend to this crucial conversation.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

• Rev. Dr. Watson's personal journey and the experiences that led her to this work.
• A deep dive into the historical role of the church in the creation and maintenance of white skin supremacy, as explored in her compelling chapter.
• Reflections on the complexities of dismantling racism within religious institutions.
• The mission and vision of Nurturing Justice, Inc., in fostering education and community building for racial justice.
• Insights into the pervasive nature of systemic racism and the importance of understanding its historical roots.

Prepare for an eye-opening and thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional narratives and encourages a deeper understanding of the historical and ongoing impact of white skin supremacy.