Dr. Ross and Dr. Fuller dive deep into the importance of authentic allyship, exploring why the time has come for white people to take ownership of systemic racism. Dr. Fuller defines what an authentic ally truly looks like—someone who sponsors and mentors BIPOC individuals, speaks on their behalf, and actively works to create inclusive spaces.

The conversation also touches on the economic benefits of a diverse and equitable workplace, the historical role of allies, and how to foster a culture where BIPOC employees can express their experiences without being labeled as "complainers." Dr. Fuller shares her sources of hope for the future, including her ancestors and the next generation.

• What is an Authentic Ally? Dr. Fuller redefines allyship as active sponsorship and mentorship, not just passive support. She and Dr. Ross discuss the importance of speaking up for BIPOC colleagues, especially when they are not in the room.
• The "White Problem" of Racism: The episode explores Dr. Fuller's powerful belief that systemic racism is a problem that requires more white people to take ownership and action.
• The Business Case for DEI: The discussion highlights research showing that inclusive workplaces are more creative, make better decisions, and are more profitable.

In this episode, your host, Dr. Carolyn Coker Ross, sits down with Dr. Dietra Hawkins to discuss the transformative power of equity dinners. Dr. Hawkins, a renowned clinical psychologist and CEO of Both And Partners, shares her passion for these unique gatherings that use storytelling and food to spark meaningful dialogue and build community.

Dr. Hawkins explains that the purpose of the dinners is to foster dialogue, not debate. By encouraging individuals to share their stories without fear of judgment, the dinners help break down barriers and build empathy. We discuss how these shared meals can lead to powerful outcomes, from personal growth and healing to real-world policy changes within communities. Dr. Hawkins shares inspiring examples of how these dinners have moved people beyond anger and into a place of genuine connection and understanding.

• Equity dinners use art and trained facilitators to guide conversations about race, trauma, and social justice.
• The focus is on dialogue, allowing people to share their lived experiences without being challenged or debated.
• These gatherings can lead to profound personal and systemic changes, moving people from passive observation to active engagement.

In this episode, we expose the shocking realities of environmental racism and its devastating impact on public health. Toxicologist Dr. Shannon Z. Jones joins us to discuss how pollution from industries and landfills disproportionately harms marginalized communities. From the notorious "Cancer Alley" in Louisiana to the clean water crisis in Flint, Michigan, learn how systemic issues create health disparities. Dr. Jones shares her powerful journey from growing up near a polluted paper mill to empowering students and communities to fight for environmental justice. This conversation is a crucial look at toxicology, community activism, and the fight for basic human rights.

In this episode we cover:

• What is Environmental Racism? A clear definition and its connection to institutional racism, health disparities, and social justice.
• Toxicology in Real Life: Dr. Jones shares her personal story of growing up with polluted water containing sulfur and heavy metals, and how it led to chronic illness in her family.
• Superfund Sites Explained: Learn how to use the EPA's Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) to identify the most toxic sites in the United States and investigate pollution levels in your own community.

Shannon Jones’ Links:

Instagram: @szj7484

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shannon.z.jones

Dr Carolyn's Links

www.CarolynRossMD.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-coker-ross-md-mph-ceds-c-7b81176/

TEDxPleasantGrove talk: https://youtu.be/ljdFLCc3RtM

To buy “Antiblackness and the Stories of Authentic Allies” - bit.ly/3ZuSp1T