Transforming Race Conversations: A Healing Guide for Us All

by Eugene Ellis

A guide to supporting our emergence from the tight grip of race discomfort. If we are to address the injustice of racism, we need to have the “race conversation.” All too often, however, attempts at this conversation are met with silence, denial, anger, or hate. This is largely because the construct of race resides not only in our minds, but principally in the body. In order to have productive conversations about race and racism, a paradigm shift is needed―one which will empower us to remain present and embodied, rather than constricted with fear, regardless of our racial identities. Here, psychotherapist Eugene Ellis explores what is needed for this bodily shift to occur as he unpacks the visceral experience of the race conversation. He offers a trauma-informed, neurophysiological approach that emphasizes resourcing, body awareness, mindfulness, and healing. The Race Conversation is essential reading for therapy practitioners as well as anyone looking to engage more effectively in the ongoing dialogue around race.

Genres: Counselling

336 pages, Paperback

Published July 30, 2024

Reviews

[Michaela Wilkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I took my time with this book. I had to stop after each section so that I could let his words absorb, and not bounce off of me, much like many of us allow the race conversation to do. It is difficult to accept the racism that this world has been built upon, and yet it doesn’t get better if you go around the subject: this book goes right through the heart of it.
Very useful to have the interviews for a deeper understanding of the concepts and stages of the model. Ellis is frank, direct and also motivational and hopeful but in a realistic manner- there is no quick fix but change can come if hard work is done

[Harriet Chloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

a valuable book full of wisdom and experience

a deeply feelingful, thoughtful and emotionally generous book that doesn’t avoid the pain and discomforts necessary in this “human being” we are all in. Ultimately hopeful and heartfelt. A very good read.

[Kate Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a must read!
It really opens your eyes and makes you think and reevaluate things - but never in a patronising or shameful way. The book feels optimistic in that sense.
It's super easy to read, and isn't too wordy or overwhelming like some of the other books on this topic that I have read.