Racial Equity
Our Story: How We Began
RacialEquity@Focolare, originally called Courageous Conversations, was born from a pivotal question that emerged in the wake of George Floyd’s murder and the stark social inequities exposed during the height of the 2020 pandemic: “What are we going to do about racism?”
In response, we sought to create a space of recognition, support, and dialogue—a safe environment for People of Color and all who feel marginalized, both within the Focolare Movement and in society at large. Through open and honest discussions, we share personal experiences of injustice and inequality, ensuring voices are heard and stories acknowledged. This space is also a forum for self-reflection, fostering awareness and a commitment to building an anti-racist society.
But dialogue alone is not enough. Our mission is to turn conversation into concrete action. Every encounter is a call to action—an opportunity to brainstorm and implement real steps toward change, whether as individuals, within our families, or across our communities.
Our mission goes beyond conversation—we are committed to fostering deep relationships, building trust, and actively working toward a more just and equitable world. This requires us to engage in uncomfortable yet necessary conversations, challenge biases, and take meaningful steps to confront racial injustices—both within ourselves and in society.
We are dedicated to developing tangible initiatives that promote an anti-racist and more equitable future
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Safe and Inclusive Space
We create a safe and inclusive space where those impacted by racial injustice can share their experiences, and where we can all listen, learn, and engage in meaningful change
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Fostering self-awareness
We work to foster self-awareness through initiatives that challenge biases and dismantle systemic racism
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Building a welcoming community
We want to build a welcoming community within the Focolare Movement, our local regions, and our families
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Confronting racism
We want to directly confront racism in all forms—both overt and covert—through education, advocacy, and action
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Resources and educational tools
We provide resources and educational tools to deepen anti-racist awareness and encourage self-reflection
Events
Through our conversations, we invite people to share their knowledge and experiences of race in society and within the Movement. In smaller groups, we engage in deeper discussions, reflecting on what we've heard and our own experiences, while exploring actionable steps toward building an anti-racist society.
Unconscious Bias – two main speakers defining unconscious bias and how we all have it. (March 2022)
In the skin of the other – a presentation on systemic racism and the effects it has on society and POC. (May 2023)
Identity & Culture – guest speaker Patrick Briggs showed us how we identify ourselves shape our decision making and how we see and ‘judge’ others. (Aug. 2022)
