Being White Today

by Shelly Tochluk, Christine Saxman

The idea that White people are under attack has permeated political discourse in recent elections. The election of 2024 will be no different. Being White A Roadmap for a Positive Antiracist Life helps White people navigate the myriad messages they encounter about race. The book applies the White racial identity framework developed by psychologist Dr. Janet Helms to take a strong stance against racism. Using fictionalized scenarios and case studies, it offers a way to resist extremist messaging and recruitment. A helpful resource for White people who care about US society, in particular, White parents, educators, activists, and racial/social justice practitioners, this book also helps people understand antiracist messaging and how to use it strategically to create a larger community of White antiracists.

Genres: Nonfiction

272 pages, Paperback

Published May 21, 2024

Reviews

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tochluk and Saxman provide a compelling playbook for understanding white identity and preparing for messages intended to sabotage progress from the far right (and lure folks into white supremacy thinking) and poorly timed messages from well-intentioned antiracists that can cause more harm than good. Well considered and comprehensive - I will return to this text again and again.

[Adrian Neibauer · Rating 5 out of 5]

For those unfamiliar with Dr. Janet Helms' Stages of White Racial/Ethnic Identity Development, I highly recommend this book. Shelly Tochluk and Christine Saxman provide a clear discussion of each stage, complete with thoughtful and thought-provoking discussion/reflection questions, case studies, and responses to common racist messaging. This book is one that you can refer to over and over again throughout your anti-racist journey.