“Politics, although not perfect, was the best available nonviolent means of changing how we lived...Politics is not an end; it's a means to an end."
- Maynard Jackson, Atlanta's first Black mayor, 1988
DAY THIRTEEN
Reflection
 
Engaging with content related to racism in the media and politics may feel a little close to home, as our Constitution has been tested in recent months. The media serves a "gatekeeper" role and has a significant influence on citizens' issues and care, which may drive subsequent government action to address those issues through policy. Changes in how the media reports news and how the public consumes it has also impacted politics. The rising prominence of the internet and social media as news sources has reduced the extent to which news is curated by professionals, a phenomenon commonly credited with causing a corresponding rise in "fake news."
 
Today, we ask you to reflect on what you have learned this week. Think back on all the articles, videos and podcasts you have engaged in so far. Focus on the insightful thoughts you had when engaging with these resources.
REFLECTION
Reflect on the following questions:
 
  • How is structural racism different from other levels of racism (internal, interpersonal and institutional)?
  • Why is that difference important when determining what intervention should be undertaken to address structural racism versus other levels of racism?
  • How does political coverage in the media affect citizen perceptions of politics?
  • How does the media influence which issues make it onto policy agendas?
CONSIDER
How do we support policies to achieve true equity?
JOIN THE CONVERSATION
Equity Conversation #3 - TODAY at 3:00 p.m.
United Way of Pierce County is hosting weekly Equity Conversations as an opportunity to share thoughts and reflections about what you are learning in a supportive space. Click below to register for today's conversation via Zoom.
United Way of Thurston County solves complicated issues by convening community stakeholders and collaborating to develop short and long-term strategies. United Way is an excellent steward of donor dollars and is committed to transparency, accountability and sound fiscal management. United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community. Learn more: https://www.unitedway-thurston.org/

United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. We have one life. To live better, we must LIVE UNITED®.