The Mill City Times Interview: LaToya Burrell, Author, Be Bold: How to Prepare Your Heart & Mind for Racial Reconciliation

Article by Becky Fillinger

Racial equity is a central focus for President Biden. Are you interested in taking a sincere step in curing the racial injustice in our local society? We have an expert in our community, LaToya Burrell. LaToya is the Dean of Graduate Education and Accreditation at North Central University and the author of Be Bold:  How to Prepare Your Heart & Mind for Racial Reconciliation. Her new book has the practical advice we need to move forward. 

Q:  For those who want to start courageous conversations for racial harmony, what practical steps can you recommend?

A:  This process is not a one size fits all process, but one thing consistent is the requirement that a person be intentional and willing to commit to this very personal journey. The person should be open and honest with their past and history and understand that the process is not designed to make anyone feel guilty or ashamed, but instead, designed to make us aware. The awareness leads to change and growth. The first step is to make a plan. In my book, I have specific resources and exercises that I recommend everyone explore in the self-examination process.

LaToya BurrellQ:  Tell us about the notion of growth groups. Have you seen growth groups form and sincerely address issues like racial injustice?

A:  The idea behind the growth group is that we were not designed to be alone! This process is no different. Collaboration and community is useful in this process because growth groups can hold one another accountable, share resources and stories, and provide different perspectives to enrich the discussions. I have seen growth groups be useful tools when groups are intentional, committed and sincere. Like self-examination, there is not a one size fits all rule of what growth groups can and should look like.  How often you connect and how long you connect, exactly what you discuss, and ground rules for mutual respect, are all flexible. Yes, I have enjoyed hearing growth group success stories.

Q:  Can you give us some examples of how people have started to change their perceptions by 'being bold'?

A:  Being Bold encourages people to step into the area of uncertainty or discomfort, especially if those things have been barriers in the past.  Being Bold ultimately leads to growth and liberation. During the process of being bold, you listen and learn and examine yourself and possible biases. You’re able to determine where you are versus where you want to be and make a plan. The process is life changing and enlightening for many!

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Read reviews of Be Bold on Amazon...

Brianna Rose interviews LaToya Burrell