Too often we rely on technical models to address racism—implicit bias training, examining data and statistics, crafting institutional statements. But the very systems that uphold racial inequity, says Esther Armah, are actually propped up by emotion, not logic. Changing the brutal realities of systemic racism requires embarking on a mission of “emotional justice.” For some, an “intimate reckoning” in our closest relationships is necessary, she says. Armah believes that we must confront, in both the personal and public spheres, the way race and racism are felt in the body.
As founder and Executive Director of the Armah Institute of Emotional Justice, her visionary framework upends performative Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion trainings that often presume whiteness is the norm. Instead, her method harnesses the emotional power of theatre, art, and storytelling to center the experiences of the most marginalized members of a community. Esther speaks with Courtney about how unpacking emotionality is messy and uncomfortable, but crucial for substantive change.
Learn more about Esther’s work at The Armah Institute of Emotional Justice. Esther and Courtney also sat down for a conversation for Courtney’s newsletter, The Examined Family. For a deeper look into emotional justice, read more from Esther here.
An explanation of the 1966 coup in Ghana that Esther mentions in the episode can be found here. Plus, peruse the work of poet Koleka Putuma, who Esther quotes at the end of the episode. A transcript of this episode can be found here. Find additional show notes here.
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