Rashad Robinson Talks Leadership in Activism & Systemic Change | How I Built This with Guy Raz | NPR

Transcript

welcome back that was just amazing um to  to experience that um wow i'm sure toby is still kind of reeling um i feel so honored to  be here sharing the screen right now with rashad robinson rashad is the president of color change  rashad is also our final guest uh this evening and of the summit and what what better way  to cap off a day on impact w... Read More

Summary

In this video, Rashad Robinson, the president of Color of Change, discusses the importance of black joy and its role in activism. He also talks about his background in activism, the growth of Color of Change, and how he measures impact. Robinson emphasizes the need to change the narrative around racial inequality and structural issues, and the importance of building infrastructure for long-term change.

Questions & Answers

Q: Can you explain what black joy means to Color of Change and its advocacy work?

According to Robinson, black joy is a centerpiece of Color of Change's advocacy and activism work. It is not about the absence of pain, but rather the presence of aspiration. Black joy represents what black people are fighting for, rather than just what they are fighting against. Color of Change aims to bring people together and accomplish big things by centering black joy and focusing on relational organizing.

Q: How does Robinson view leadership in activism?

Robinson believes that leadership in activism is not about being a spokesperson for marginalized communities, but instead about building the infrastructure and vehicles for these communities to be heard. He emphasizes the importance of empowering people to advocate for themselves and creating the necessary resources and support systems for them to challenge powerful forces and achieve change.

Q: How does Color of Change measure its impact?

Color of Change uses a rubric to evaluate its impact, which includes measuring momentum achievements and systemic victories. Momentum achievements refer to actions that chip away at structures, while systemic victories involve actual changes in laws or policies. Color of Change also considers its relative role in the work, distinguishing between campaigns that would have happened without their involvement and ones that couldn't have happened without them.

Q: How does Robinson navigate the emotionally exhausting aspects of his work?

Robinson acknowledges that the work he does can be emotionally draining, particularly when he receives outreach from individuals in deep pain. While he may not always have the resources or ability to address every issue, he finds strength in his network of supportive friends and family. Engaging in activities like cooking and retail therapy also help him cope with the stress. Robinson emphasizes the importance of self-care and community care as essential for sustaining activism.

Q: How does Robinson view progress and the challenges associated with achieving it?

Robinson acknowledges that progress is a tricky term because systems of oppression are durable and can adapt to maintain the status quo. He cautions against mistaking cosmetic victories for actual progress, highlighting the need to challenge underlying systems and structures. Robinson emphasizes the importance of building infrastructure and holding a high standard of change to combat the backlash and forces that impede progress.

Q: How does Robinson approach persuasion in his activism work?

Robinson believes that persuasion is not just about messaging, but also about narrative change and shifting power dynamics. He highlights the power of storytelling and the importance of framing issues in a way that places the responsibility on systems rather than individuals. By making the active voice about the system, people are more likely to question and challenge the underlying structures of racism, inequality, and discrimination.

Q: Can you discuss Robinson's view on hope and its role in activism?

Robinson believes in the power of hope and how it motivates people to fight for a better future. He shares a personal story about his grandfather, who couldn't read or write but still participated in democracy and instilled hope in Robinson. Hope is an essential element in driving change and achieving progress, as it provides the belief that more is possible and that collective efforts can make a difference.

Q: How does Color of Change reimagine the architecture of civil rights movements?

Color of Change's approach involves building momentum, leveraging systemic pivots, and scaling campaigns over time. They focus on creating infrastructure and innovation to respond effectively to various challenges. By channeling energy and responses into movements that drive systemic change, Color of Change aims to go beyond cosmetic victories and focus on achieving tangible progress. The goal is to build sustainable structures and organizations that can withstand opposition and protect the changes made.

Q: How does Robinson view the relationship between progress and backlash?

Robinson acknowledges that progress often comes with backlash. He cites examples such as discriminatory voter ID laws emerging after the election of the first black president. Despite the challenges, he emphasizes the need to recognize progress while being prepared to defend it. This requires building infrastructure, both to achieve progress and to resist the forces that impede change. Robinson underscores the importance of telling stories that highlight progress, while also acknowledging the ongoing work that needs to be done.

Q: How does Robinson find strength to continue his work?

Robinson finds strength in the legacy of his family and the oppressed communities he advocates for. He draws inspiration from the resilience and determination of those who have fought for a better future. Additionally, he relies on his network of friends, family, and colleagues who provide support, advice, and critique. Their encouragement and belief in his leadership sustain him as he navigates the challenges of activism and working towards social change.

Takeaways

Rashad Robinson discusses the significance of centering black joy in activism and the need to focus on what marginalized communities are fighting for. He highlights the importance of building infrastructure and vehicles for people to advocate for themselves, rather than acting as spokespeople. Robinson emphasizes the need to distinguish between cosmetic victories and systemic change and to challenge and change the narrative around racial inequality. He also stresses the role of hope in driving progress and the importance of resilience and community support in sustaining activism. Ultimately, progress requires shifting power dynamics, telling impactful stories, and building infrastructure to achieve long-term change.