Have you ever wondered what is today’s national day? Today, January 16th, marks a significant occasion: the National Day of Racial Healing. Elon University, committed to inclusive excellence, is actively participating in this nationwide observance by hosting a community dinner and dialogue. This event, organized by the Office of Inclusive Excellence Education and Development in collaboration with the Center for Race, Ethnicity and Diversity Education (CREDE), is designed to foster understanding and action around racial healing.
National Day of Racial Healing logo displayed to promote today's event at Elon University, emphasizing community and dialogue for racial healing.
Understanding the National Day of Racial Healing
The National Day of Racial Healing is not just another date on the calendar; it’s an annual observance initiated by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Established in 2017, it falls on the Tuesday following Martin Luther King Jr. Day, serving as a continuation of Dr. King’s dream of unity and equality. This day is intrinsically linked to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s broader Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (TRHT) effort. TRHT is a national and community-based process aimed at achieving transformative and sustainable change by helping individuals build relationships, understand their communities, and foster trust.
The core purpose of the National Day of Racial Healing is to promote racial healing and equity. It provides a dedicated space for individuals, particularly those who have experienced racial inequity, to share their stories and truths. It’s also a time to strengthen relationships across racial identities, encouraging dialogue and mutual respect. As Carla Fullwood, director of inclusive excellence education and development at Elon University, emphasizes, engaging in dialogue is crucial. It allows communities to listen, reflect, and strategize actionable steps towards inclusive excellence, especially relevant in today’s social climate. This aligns with core values like fostering respect for human difference and enriching education through relationships.
Elon University’s Commitment to Racial Healing Through Community Dialogue
Elon University has been actively recognizing the National Day of Racial Healing since 2022, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to these principles. This year, Elon is hosting a “How We Heal” community dinner and dialogue on Tuesday, January 16th, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in McKinnon Hall. This event is more than just a dinner; it’s an opportunity for the Elon community to reflect on shared values and collaboratively shape a path towards healing. It’s a chance to unite individuals, recognize our shared humanity, and create concrete actions towards a more just and equitable world.
The National Day of Racial Healing also serves as an important moment for reflection and planning. It’s a time to look back at the past year, assess progress, and regroup for the ongoing journey of racial healing in the current year. Spaces for the community dinner and dialogue are limited, and interested participants are encouraged to register to secure their spot and participate in this vital conversation.
Learning about the National Day of Racial Healing is crucial because it champions the building of strong relationships across racial and other identity differences through thoughtful reflection and personal storytelling. By participating in events like the one at Elon University, individuals contribute to a broader movement of understanding, healing, and working towards a more equitable future for all.
