Communities are facing increasing challenges, from economic instability to social injustice, and everything in between. But what is truly required in times of hardship is not just survival, but courage. Courage to speak up, to act in the face of adversity, and to push for long-term change, even when the road ahead feels uncertain.
I am constantly inspired by the work of our clients who lead with courage, even as challenges continue to mount. One such organization is the Institute for Dismantling Racism (IDR) in Winston-Salem. For over 20 years, IDR has led the charge in addressing systemic racism and fostering healing in the community. The courage it takes to confront such a deeply entrenched issue, to bring difficult conversations to the forefront, and to actively dismantle systems of oppression is immense. But it is this courage that serves as the foundation for true resilience — for individuals, communities, and for all of us working toward lasting change.
Standing against systemic racism is not just about speaking out. It is about showing up every day, with the understanding that change will not come overnight, and that the path to justice is long and often fraught with challenges.
IDR’s multiracial “anti-racism learning circles” are a powerful example of courage. These circles create a safe space for individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together, engage in difficult conversations, and explore how systemic racism affects their lives and communities. In these spaces, participants lean into discomfort and actively work toward healing, justice, and personal accountability. Participating in and leading such circles — embracing understanding and empathy amid deep societal divisions — is a powerful act of courage and resilience.
Through IDR’s work, I have seen firsthand how courage — the willingness to confront difficult issues and push for change — is the cornerstone of resilience. Resilience does not simply mean bouncing back from hardship; it is about having the strength to face adversity and injustice head-on.
We are living through a period of rapid change, with social systems being tested and reexamined. From addressing racial injustice to tackling climate change and economic inequality, the challenges before us are complex and multifaceted.
At this moment, courage is more critical than ever — not just from our leaders, but from every member of our community. It takes courage to stand up for justice, advocate for the well-being of our communities, and resist the rising forces of oppression.
As Audre Lorde poignantly reminds us:
“When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.”
It is courage that empowers us not only to endure difficult challenges but to confront them head-on and work toward realizing our vision for a just and more compassionate world.
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