FYI 71 - Let's Talk Race Richland (SC) Public Library

"Let’s Talk Race" emerged from the Richland (SC) Public Library as a response to the tragic events of 2015, including the murders of Walter Scott and the Charleston Emmanuel AME Church shooting. In the aftermath of these incidents, many South Carolinians were left grappling with a mix of emotions—anger, confusion, and fear. As the community sought ways to process and heal, the library took a proactive approach. The library's response was to initiate small dialogue circles, providing a safe haven for conversations about race. These circles aimed to foster understanding and empathy in the face of challenging circumstances. Over time, this grassroots effort grew into a movement. Since then, the Richland Library has organized over 250 events and community discussions, engaging more than 4,000 participants. The impact of these conversations extended beyond the library's walls, prompting the library team to create a free curriculum, designed to be utilized by libraries and groups across the country. In this episode, we talk with Tamara King, Chief Equity and Engagement Officer, and Heather McCue, Children's and Teens Services Manager at RPL. Join us as we delve into the roots and evolution of "Let’s Talk Race," exploring how it has transformed into a platform for change—nurturing empathy and unity through candid conversations about race.