Understanding Racial Equity: A Free 21-Day Learning Journey

Blue background with colorful loops and text that says 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge

The term “racial equity” shows up a lot these days. In news stories and social media posts. On T-shirts and handheld signs. In conversations, both polite and confrontational.

But how many of us understand what it actually means?

The 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge offers a free, engaging way to learn.

The Challenge invites you to learn more about historical, race-centered inequities in national, state and local systems, and how they came to be. It explains the different ways that bias, prejudice, privilege and oppression show up in everyday life.

Why does this matter? Because race – our own and that of others – shapes our experiences, interactions, and the opportunities available to us. Every person brings unique strengths and perspectives to the social fabric of our communities. Every person’s life experience strengthens our collective understanding of how we can build a brighter future. Every person deserves the opportunity to pursue the life they want to live. And every person can make a difference for all.

The 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge is simple, free and anonymous. When you sign up, you’ll receive a short email daily for 21 week days. Each email will include topics and links for a self-guided journey that explores the history and effects of racism and how it impacts people’s lives.

The Challenge isn’t confrontational. It isn’t divisive or accusatory. It’s simply a way to understand the issue and its impact, while offering ways you can respond to build a more fair and equitable community.

The 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge runs April 5 to May 7.

Our focus for this challenge is racial equity, yet equity extends beyond race to other identities and remains central to United Way’s vision: Strong, caring communities where EVERY person is valued, thriving, and connected for the common good.

To learn more about disability, LGBTQIA, and other identities impacted by inequities, visit some of our past 21-Day Challenges at unitedforscmi.org/equity-challenge.