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Another meaningful, important story from Archy Jamjun at our last live show. 

Becoming Antiracist

As a white woman who who prides herself on seeking out, paying, and promoting people of color, my (and Story Jam's initiative is to build a pro-social justice community of inclusion.

I spent twelve years seeking to hire Black and non-Black people of color for my event band, and I've spent the last six years intentionally spotlighting underrepresented storytellers at Story Jam. Yet, I am still learning.

I've recently taken some time try to explore the scope of what it means to commit a microaggression. This could be a well-meaning comment ("We're all from Africa") or a common phrase ("Let's get cracking!") that can cause pain. Racist microaggressions are committed either blatantly or when someone is offended without the offender even realizing it. 

In my own effort to support racial justice, I and many others are working to cite potential microaggressions and to re-consider some of our phraseology and thinking. We're looking at intent versus impact. We're trying to get it right, to put meaning into our language, and compassion in our hearts. 

It is a labor of love to produce Story Jam, presenting to a mostly white audience stories which they may not otherwise hear. I am proud of the work we do, of the diverse tellers and musicians we book, of our podcast episodes that highlight stories of racism, and of our recent hiring of a female Black social media manager. I believe it's important for us to work toward improved language choices and actions to continue to align with our core values.

In the last few months, I've listened to people at the forefront of the antiracism movement to learn how powerful platforms like live performance and podcasting can go even further to open communication and inspire deeper introspection and actions. I've initiated honest conversations with the Story Jam team—and with close friends of differing races—about how we can strengthen ourselves and our community. I'm currently enrolled in an antiracism program at National Louis University’s Social Justice Institute and I am working with a DEI coach. I also look forward to reading and learning more (one friend recommended this program and this book).

To patiently cite indiscretions or microaggressions is a bridge-building venture. Thoughtful people post antiracist resources on social media, and these are the tools and steps that will inspire and invite more allies. There's tremendous power in calling people in versus calling them out. As President Obama says, combating racism is a "marathon not a sprint."

I realize that allyship requires focused effort. Stepping into a public forum is a privilege and a responsibility and that might also open us up to criticism, even if our intentions are good. Even we who aim to be allies won't always get things perfectly right, but in helping give voice to performing artists in a setting where they may not normally be heard, Story Jam—and our community of performers, volunteers, staff, and audience—can work to become powerful agents of change.