Here’s a thread of basic tips about having conversations on race from Ijeoma Oluo’s book “So you want to talk about race”

1. State your intentions - Why are you having this particular conversation? Do you know why it matters to you?

2. Remember what your top priority in the conversation is, and don’t let your emotions override that

3. Do your research - A quick google search about a topic you are unfamiliar with will save everyone a lot of time. If you are white talking to a person of color, it is not their job to educate you on the subject

4. Don’t make your anti-racism argument oppressive against other groups - It is never okay to battle racism with sexism, transphobia, ableism, or other oppressive languages and actions

5. When you start to feel defensive, stop and ask yourself why - Ask yourself, “what is being threatened here? what am I thinking that this conversation says about me?”

6. Do not tone police - Do not require that people make their discussions on the racial oppression they face comfortable for you

7. If you are white, watch how many times you say “I” and “me” - Systemic racism is about more than individuals, and it is not about your personal feelings

8. Ask yourself: am I trying to be right, or am I trying to do better? - Conversations on racism should never be about winning. Your opponent isn’t a person, it’s the system of racism that often shows up in the words and actions of other people

9. Do not force people of color into discussions of race - POC live with racism every day with no say over when/how it impacts their lives. When POC have the luxury to choose to not engage in additional dialogue about race, do not deny them that. There will be other opportunities