What's Up with White Women?

“An insightful, provocative, and practical guide . . . a toolkit for white women to become more effective racial justice allies. Highly recommended.” —Paul Kivel, author of Uprooting Racism

Blending real-life stories, theory, and anti-racism practices from decades of on-the-ground work, the authors invite white women to understand their gendered role in systemic racism and their unique opportunity for action. Both frank and compassionate, coverage includes:

• Stories of white women’s experiences with sexism, racism, and white privilege
• How white women harm BIPOC and ourselves by colluding with systems of oppression
• Why and how white women often hijack race conversations
• A powerful six-stage identity development model for self-reflection and growth
• Guiding questions and practical actions for strengthening anti-racism practices
• Tools to cultivate genuine partnerships with BIPOC individuals and groups.

White women are positioned in a power hierarchy between white men and BIPOC. It is time for white women to step up and undertake deep reflection on their role in systemic racism and take concrete actions that support equity and justice for all people.

Silver, 2022 IPPY Awards—Current Events II (Social Issues/Humanitarian)

“This analysis helps white women with two simultaneous character-forming tasks: healing from wounds of sexism and using the power we get from privilege to weaken racism in ourselves and in the world.” —Peggy McIntosh, PhD, author of White Privilege

“If you identify as white and female and are serious about your anti-racism work in the world, this is your next book.” —Kathy Obear, author of But I’m NOT Racist