How One Woman is Cultivating Inclusivity After a Shocking Experience of Racism

Pratipaksha Bhavana: to discontinue negative thinking patterns by cultivating the opposite.

I recently saw a post on social media asking for volunteers for an event called Stand Up to Hate playdate. The event caught my eye for 2 reasons:

1. It was aimed at kids and families, to help them have conversations about differences--and why it's important to always be kind. (I have a young kid! I believe in appreciating people who are different from me!)
2. It included yoga. On multiple levels, folks. This is what is meant by "yoga off the mat."

I chatted on the phone with Ferrai (standuptohateinc@gmail.com), the creator of Stand Up to Hate, and got to learn a little more about the amazing work she's doing. See below for some interview Q&A we later exchanged via email. (Emphasis in italics added by me.)

Be sure to check out the upcoming playdates/back to school events in Chicago and the south suburbs:

Saturday, September 7, 2024

12 - 3pm

La Follette (Robert) Park

1333 N Laramie Ave.

Chicago, IL

face painting, balloon animals, ice cream, school supplies, food, yoga, & family fun

Saturday, September 28, 2024

Orland Park, IL

Saturday, October 12, 2024

Riverside, IL

What is Stand Up to Hate, and how did it begin?

Seven years ago, while I was working as a nanny for a family in Chicago, something shocking happened. They received a racist letter that really shook us all. In response to that incident, we decided to take action and create a playdate aimed at bringing our community together. We called it "Stand Up to Hate." The event turned out to be a huge success, and I realized we needed to keep this momentum going. So, I made it a point to host it annually. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, instead of slowing down, I used that time to plan our next gathering, focusing on how to incorporate meaningful learning opportunities for families into the event.

How did you come up with the idea to host play dates? What can people expect when they attend?

Our free community events focused on social-emotional and mental well-being for families. Our goal is to provide resources to both adults and children that promote diversity and inclusivity in their lives. There will be a children’s table with books that educate and depict people from all communities: i.e. LGBTQ+, Black, AAPI, Hispanic, Indigenous, etc. There will be a table for families to learn about different foods from different cultures, how to educate and introduce different foods into their families lives, and how to teach children to be kind and respectful when it comes to food allergies. The event features multiple stations throughout the park, including a children's table with books that depict people from all communities, a table showcasing different foods from various cultures, and a yoga instructor to help families tap into their emotions and learn how to manage them through movement. We strive to create a welcoming and educational environment that encourages kindness, respect, and understanding among all participants.

Why did you choose to incorporate yoga as a part of your events? How does it support your mission?

We incorporate yoga into our events as a way to promote mindfulness, wellness, and community connection. By offering yoga sessions, we provide families with an opportunity to engage in a calming practice that fosters relaxation and self-awareness. Yoga encourages participants to focus on their breath and movements, helping to reduce stress and anxiety, which is especially important in our fast-paced world.

This practice aligns perfectly with my mission of creating a supportive and inclusive community. Through yoga, we not only promote physical well-being but also encourage mental and emotional health. It serves as a tool for families to connect with themselves and each other, fostering a sense of unity and understanding. By incorporating yoga, we help participants develop resilience and mindfulness, equipping them with valuable skills to address challenges, including those related to hate and discrimination. Ultimately, yoga enhances the overall experience of our events, reinforcing the message that love, acceptance, and community strength are essential in standing up to hate.

Can people donate to your organization or help out in other ways?

Please consider donating to our GoFundMe campaign! Your support will help us continue our mission of fostering community unity and promoting inclusivity through events that educate and empower families. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference and helps us create a safe space for healing and growth. Or reach out via our website to inquire about volunteer opportunities.