Calling in is one of SURJ’s core values, and a calling in practice is one of the most important tools you can have for your toolkit in turbulent times.
And at a time when many tough conversations feel even more fraught, we’re all in for a boost of inspiration - Loretta Ross, a longtime African American reproductive justice activist, MacArthur Fellow, Smith College professor, and informal mentor to SURJ’s Calling In team, has just published Calling In: How to Start Making Change with Those You’d Rather Cancel.
To make the most of the moment, the SURJ Calling In team invites you to an upcoming virtual book club to unpack the importance of, and practice the skills necessary for, a Calling In perspective.
Part memoir, part how-to, Calling In shares personal examples of calling in as well as situations that warrant “calling out” strategies, which may not help to build relationships or grow our progressive political movements, but can stop immediate harm or can be “speaking truth to power.” Ross advises that we need to “call ourselves in” first, so our own emotional baggage does not block authentic conversations. Hear what early readers are saying here.
Ready to dive into the book and Calling In framework in community? Two invitations:
Join the SURJ NYC Calling In team for a two-part virtual discussion on Tuesdays, April 8 & May 13 from 7:30-9:00 PM Eastern. No need to have already taken a SURJ “Calling In” workshop or be active in SURJ - we can all learn together.
Get hands on practice by joining a Calling In Workshop - including the next one on Wednesday, March 19 from 6:00-8:00 PM Eastern. These are offered throughout the year, so keep an eye out for Calling In Workshops in upcoming months.
Looking forward to being in conversation and building community with you,
SURJ NYC Calling In Team