About Togetherness Wayfinder

The Togetherness Wayfinder: An Introductory Exploration

In the contemporary discourse on combating systemic racism, the togetherness wayfinder (formerly the theory of racelessness) emerges as a framework that both analyzes and challenges the foundational notion of “race,” the practice of racialization, and the subsequent power imbalances achieved by the belief and practice. Positioned as a paradigm shift, this wayfinder proposes a reevaluation of our understanding of human diversity, encouraging a departure from traditional “racial” categorizations in favor of a more nuanced and inclusive perspective. The primary objective of the wayfinder is to effectively stop the causes and effects of said racism.

Central to the wayfinder is the rejection of the idea that “race” is biological or a social construction. Instead, it asserts that racism is the human-made construction that requires the belief in “race” and practice of racialization. Racism is shaped by historical and cultural forces rather than intrinsic or extrinsic qualities of human identity. The core proposition suggests that by deconstructing the belief that “race,” rather than racism, is biological or a construction and the practice of racialization as a means to subjugate and oppress or elevate and privilege, we can begin to unravel the complex power dynamics perpetuated by racism.

The core rules of the togetherness wayfinder are as follows:

1. Race/ism (i.e., racism) is a socially constructed system of economic and social oppression that requires the belief in “race” and the practice of racialization to reinforce various power imbalances.

2. “Race” is an imaginary part of the socially constructed reality of racism (i.e., race/ism).

3. Racialization is the process of applying an inescapable economic and social class hierarchy—“race/ism”—to humans that creates or reinforces power imbalances.

4. The belief in “race” and practice of racialization affect people differently. These differences serve to uphold the machinery of racism, acting as obstacles to unification, healing, and reconciliation.

5. Translation of what one means by “race,” including the presumed absence of “race” in any context, can lead to understanding and bridge-making. The racelessness translator helps people interpret “race” into something being said about the causes/effects of racism, culture, ethnicity, social class, economic class, or some combination.

6. Race/ism does not exist everywhere in the same way and can be ended.

At its essence, the togetherness wayfinder advocates for the rejection of essentialism, positing that dismantling racism necessitates dispelling the deeply ingrained belief in discrete human “races.” The wayfinder introduces the racelessness translator as a pivotal tool, facilitating the conversion of perceptions framed in terms of “race” into more precise and accurate language, such as culture, ethnicity, economic class, social class, or racism itself. Through this linguistic recalibration, the wayfinder aims to unveil the otherwise concealed aspects of racism, making it perceptible to a broader audience.

The theoretical framework also introduces philosophical concepts such as architecture, madness, twilight, the walking negative, rememory, invisible ink, consolation, maternal energy, diaspora, nation, and home. These concepts serve as analytical instruments, assisting individuals in comprehending and navigating the intricate terrain of racism and its far-reaching implications with an eye toward unification, healing, and reconciliation.

Critical to the wayfinder is the acknowledgment of racism as a socio-structural phenomenon rather than an inherent trait of individuals or groups. Racism, it contends, is a consequence of the belief in “race” and the ensuing practice of racialization. By recognizing this distinction, individuals are empowered to reclaim agency and reject the dehumanizing impact of racialization.

The wayfinder critiques prevailing approaches to “race,” highlighting the cyclical and regressive nature of antiracist efforts rooted in traditional “racial” ideologies. It beckons society to transcend and end these limitations.

In summary, the togetherness wayfinder stands as a compelling and transformative framework, urging a reassessment of conventional perspectives on human diversity. By challenging the notion of “race” and advocating for a more refined language to articulate cultural and ethnic distinctions, the theory presents a pathway toward dismantling entrenched structures of racism and fostering a society that celebrates the richness of individual and collective identities unrestricted by racism.

Speaking

You want dynamic, motivational, and experienced speakers on subjects ranging from academia to business to policy to the nonprofit sector. Dr. Sheena Mason answers your call. We want to speak with you to identify a topic that works best with your vision and aligns with Dr. Mason’s mission.

Policy & Procedure Review & Assessment

You want an experienced and astute person to examine the effectiveness of your well-intentioned workplace cultural policies and procedures. Further, you want to know how to build the ultimate workplace culture that helps everyone thrive. Dr. Sheena Mason answers your call. We want to speak with you to identify how Dr. Mason can help you ensure that your vision aligns with your practices and policies.