There is a lot I have learned about race, privilege, and social justice during the past month. I had the privilege and honor to talk with Justin Michael Williams in the previous episode, and I have also been inspired by an amazing bi-racial, pioneering woman by the name of Rebekah “Bex” Borucki. I am processing what I continue to learn about myself in facing my privilege, and what I want and need to be doing to help us move toward ending racism and promoting greater diversity of leadership and thought in this country. So, I’m having that conversation and further awakening in real-time. Sharing this moment of vulnerability with you in hopes that it helps promote the change I want to be and see in the world. I know I won’t get it all right, and that’s ok. I’ve learned that it’s more important to allow you all to witness my journey.

In this episode, I process my thoughts and feelings after learning and listening to very inspirational Persons of Color about race, privilege, and social justice. I take a moment to promote Bex Boruki and all the amazing work she is doing to promote equality and diversity, especially in the publishing industry. I reflect on whether I am publicly speaking out enough regarding politics and racial justice. I make my declaration to be anti-racist and acknowledge what I am willing to lose to speak the truth. I have more work to do, but I’m sharing it out loud in hopes that it might inspire you to do the same. It feels like one small way to honor the significance of Black History Month as it comes to an end – and to also recognize the importance of doing this work every month.

“Be really conscious of your proximity to privilege, and ask yourself the question: Am I willing to 'stand with’? That's a decision, and you are going to have to get clear on your willingness to lose in order to make that decision.” - Shelley Paxton

This week on Rebel Souls:

• Reflecting on my past episode with Justin Michael Williams
• Who is Rebekah Borucki and why you should follow her
• Letting your audience witness your awakening
• Are we doing enough to speak out on racial justice?
• What are you willing to lose to speak the truth?
• Asking yourself what is serving you and at what cost
• The difference between "modeling it" and "coaching it"
• My commitment to being an anti-racist and acknowledging my privilege
• The term "Manifesting" and how it relates to privilege
• Encouraging everyone to continue the conversation on social justice

Mentioned Resources:

• The Divine Feminine Leadership Academy with Abbey Gibb
• Website: Bex Boruki
• Bex Boruki’s Publishing House: Wheat Penny Press
• Connect with Bex on Instagram
• Book: Dear Ljeawele, or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions
• TedTalk: We Should All be Feminists

Liberate Your Soul & Join the Rebelution

Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Rebel Souls with your host, Shelley Paxton, the podcast dedicated to helping leaders reject the status quo, liberate their souls, and become lifelong rebels. If you enjoyed this episode, please head over to Apple Podcasts to subscribe to the show and leave a review. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram and share your favorite episodes across social media. And for more great content and information, visit our website and grab your copy of Soulbbatical: A Corporate Rebel’s Guide to Finding Your Best Life.