Agenda

Session I: Terms for Understanding Race, History, and How We Learn About It

This session introduces key terms for understanding race and examines a brief history of race in the United States. Participants explore authentic, accurate history of race and how race is taught and absorbed today, and consider the impact of that history on our current beliefs and behaviors.

Session II: Understanding the Meaning of Whiteness and Institutional Power and Its Role in the Social Order of White Dominance

This session covers how the race structure sets up whiteness as a preferred status in society. It also covers how institutions were empowered to keep the social order of a white-dominant society and examines the importance of understanding power.

Session III: Understanding the Struggle to End Racism Through Laws, Policy and Individual Actions

This session focuses on the movement to dismantle the race hierarchy in the U.S. Participants will examine how change has been pursued through legal action, policy shifts, and individual actions and reflect on how this struggle continues today.

Session IV: Understanding Talk as Action and the Kind of Talk That Is Beneficial

This session highlights why talking about race matters and what kinds of conversations are most effective in moving toward ending racism. Participants will consider the difference between talk that maintains the status quo and talk that drives meaningful change.

Dinner and Dialogue (Optional Add-On Event)

Dinner and Dialogue offers a more casual format than the Original Series sessions. The first hour is a shared meal and informal conversation; the second hour mirrors the series structure with facilitated dialogue. While the tone is more relaxed, the commitment to open and honest dialogue remains.

Frequently asked questions about the Original Series

What is the Dialogue on Race Original Series?

The Dialogue on Race Original Series is a one-of-a-kind educational process, one that you else. Facilitated and backed by factual materials, participants gain valuable insights into the race construct, its historical context, and its impact on society.

Is the Original Series virtual or in-person? Can I participate if I'm not in Louisiana?

Dialogue on Race Louisiana is a Louisiana-based organization providing a national dialogue on race. The Original Series offers multiple participation modes, including virtual, hybrid, and in-person options, ensuring flexibility to accommodate your preferences.

Are there facilitators for each session?

Yes, each session is facilitated by two trained Dialogue on Race Louisiana (DORLA) Facilitators. They guide the process, ensuring a space for an open, honest, and brave conversation for all participants.

What are the "Topic Questions" mentioned in the agenda?

The "Topic Questions" are open-ended questions designed to facilitate complete and meaningful conversations. They encourage you to reflect on the session's materials, share your insights, discuss instances of racism, and talk about what you would like to see happen to end racism.

Do I need prior knowledge or experience to participate?

No prior knowledge or experience is required. The Original Series is designed for individuals of all backgrounds and levels of familiarity with race. Previous participants who have repeated the series share that they enjoy taking the series multiple times and learn more each time.

Can organizations or groups participate in the Original Series?

Absolutely! Dialogue on Race Louisiana welcomes organizations and groups interested in participating. If you represent an organization and would like to bring the Original Series to your employees or members, please contact Dialogue on Race at info@dialogueonracelouisiana.org.

Are scholarships or discounts available?

Yes. Dialogue on Race Louisiana does offer scholarships and discounts for those who are unable to cover their registration fee. You can contact sign up at https://www.dor.la/scholarships

Dialogue on Race the Original Series 2026

Sign up for Dialogue on Race Louisiana’s Original Series and join participants from around the USA in a structured dialogue on race.