Author: Ridgefield Allies
Juneteenth
Wondering or have questions about Juneteenth? Ridgefield Allies posted a short, informative slide show each day this week (June 15-19, 2020) as quick guides to get you started in learning about this holiday tradition. We’ve embedded all 5 slide shows on this page, making it easy for you to begin learning.
Ally Story: An Allies Valentine
In the mid-1970s I was a student at Amherst College. Although there were many ways that Amherst was substantially imperfect, there were also many ways in which Amherst created a strong, healthy and inclusive sense of community. This is a story about allies and community.
Allies’ Book Club Via Zoom
Series One ~ “White Fragility” by Robin DeAngelo
You may purchase “White Fragility” for curbside pickup at Books on the Common at 404 Main St, Ridgefield, by emailing or by calling (203) 431-9100. Read the book summary or purchase online at Books on the Common’s online store.
How to Respond to “Riots Never Solve Anything!”
A quick roundup of things to say to Saltine Americans clutching their pearls over rioting and looting:
read more
For Our White Friends Desiring to Be Allies
Author’s Note: I’m writing this in hopes that it can be used to lighten the load of marginalized folks, keeping in mind that not all marginalized people want to engage in the ally conversation, and that is perfect as well. For those who do, my prayer is that when someone asks you the question, “how can I be a stronger ally?” you might choose to save your breath/energy and send this in its place.
read more
How to Make this Moment the Turning Point for Real Change
By President Barack Obama
Distinguishing: Allyship > Fragility > Whitewashing
Five simple graphics illustrate the differences between Authentic Allyship, Performative Allyship, White Fragility, Weaponized White Fragility, and Whitewashing. Easy to grasp and quick to communicate — take a look and share with your family, children, and friends.
- 1867
Ida Gray (also known as Ida Gray Nelson and Ida Rollins) is born. The first African-American woman to become a dentist in the United States, Dr. Gray became interested in dentistry when she went to work in the offices of Jonathan Taft, an early advocate for women to learn dentistry. After her apprenticeship in his office, Gray passed the entrance examinations and then attended the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. When she graduated, it was widely published that she was the first African American dentist in the United States and she was promoted as a role model for women to follow. Gray practiced in Ohio before settling in Chicago, where she remained until her death. The School of Dentistry at the University of Michigan gives an annual diversity award in Dr. Gray’s name. Learn more. - 1877
African-American inventor, businessman, and community leader Garrett Morgan is born. His most notable inventions were a the sewing machine zigzag stitch attachment, the three-color traffic signal (still in use today), and an early type of gas mask that was notably used in a 1916 tunnel construction disaster rescue. Morgan also discovered and developed a chemical hair-processing and straightening solution. He created a successful company based on his hair product inventions along with a complete line of hair-care products, and became involved in the civic and political advancement of African-Americans. Learn more. - 1916
Homer E. Harris Jr., M.D., a groundbreaking African American athlete, is born. He became the first Black captain of Seattle's Garfield High School football team. He played college football for the University of Iowa, becoming the team's Most Valuable Player and the first Black player to captain a Big Ten team in 1937. He was named All-Big Ten three years in a row. Because the National Football League (NFL) was whites-only at that time, a pro-career was closed to him, despite his proven, superior skills. Instead, Harris went to medical school and became a dermatologist. He served as head coach of the North Carolina A&T football team in 1940. Dr. Harris was inducted into the Hawkeyes' Hall of Fame in 2002, and had a Seattle park named after him the same year.