August 11, 2002

"The program offers a distinctive and innovative training methodology for anti-racist trainer and leadership development." - Ilana Shapiro, Ph.D.

The series of workshops created by Antje Mattheus and Lorraine Marino began in 1997 because of a growing readiness of white people to challenge their own and others' racism. Mattheus and Marino wanted them to get practical tools and a clear understanding of the structure of racism, and to avoid getting stuck in paralyzing guilt and shame.

The Project Change Anti-Racism Initiative and the Aspen Institute selected TfC to be among the ten U.S. programs described in depth in their new book Training for Racial Equity and Inclusion. The programs include the People's Institute for Survival and Beyond and National Coalition Building Institute.

Written by Ilana Shapiro, Ph.D., of the Alliance for Conflict Transformation, the book helps the readers sort out the different principles and methods of the ten programs and think about which might be most suitable for the needs of their group. The study also assesses organizational capacities and the connection between programs' activities and intended outcomes.

"Training for Change suggests that individual learning and self-awareness emerge from experiencing risk, conflict and mistakes, especially if they are balanced by humor, fun, and reflection. . . .the program holds that supporting grassroots, nonviolent, social movements and offering advanced training for activists is the most effective means for achieving their goals of promoting local decision-making, empowering people, and creating a racism-free world." - Dr. Shapiro

Training for Change was chosen to be included after surveying the field, getting assessments from experts and graduates of programs, and then actually participating in workshops of White People Working on Racism.

Dr. Shapiro describes the theory of change underlying TfC work and the distinguishing features of White People Working on Racism. Consultant for the study was the Center for Assessment and Policy Development.

To order the book write The Aspen Institute Fullfillment Office, PO Box 222, 109 Houghton Lab Lane, Queenstown, MD 21658 or telephone 410-820-5338.