ERIN JONES
“Let’s show up in love to those who are different from us, instead of screaming at them words of judgment or only accepting them if they assimilate to “our” ways.”
Erin Jones has worked in and around schools in different capacities for over 30 years. She has worked and done consultation for non-profits, government agencies and businesses. She has worked and lived in 5 states, from the East Coast to the Midwest to the West Coast, in communities that were predominantly White communities to communities that were predominantly Black communities to those that boasted dozens of languages and cultures. She has been recognized locally and nationally for her work in education and equity. She has also received recognition as and athlete and was invited to try out for two WNBA teams. After 20 years of playing soccer and 35 years of playing basketball, Erin now runs long-distances and is devoted to regular OrangeTheory workouts. Erin and her husband, James, have been married for almost 30 years and have three adult children - two who work in education and one who designs video games.
FOLLOW ERIN’S JOURNEY
ERIN’S THOUGHTS…
It’s March. March is Women’s History Month. In honor of women‘s history, I want to share the story of a female leader who has made an impact on my life: Dr Maxine Mimms. Dr Maxine Mimms is a lifetime educator who was a friend to both Dr Martin Luther King, Jr, and the iconic poet, author, and philosopher, Maya Angelou.
TEDx TALKS
ISBN Number: 9798540478625
Bridges To Heal US!
So, you want to do your part to end racism in the United States?
Have you been watching racial conflict erupt across the nation, wondering if there is any hope for peace? Do you want to be part of the healing of our nation but just don’t know if you as an individual can make a difference? Do you wonder if you need a title or need to run for office to make the kinds of changes needed?
In Bridges to Heal US, you will learn from author and 30-year, locally- and nationally-award-winning educator, Erin Jones, about strategies to help you move your community towards racial justice by:
Developing the attitudes and behaviors necessary to engage in HARD conversations about race and justice
Understanding the role of your own story and identities in dismantling racism
Learning about the stories of other people who may experience race different from you
Realizing which levers to push at your work site, in your community and in government to eliminate racism
Identifying next steps to move your learning forward
You can’t end racism on your own, but if you are interested in learning how to BE and BUILD the bridges necessary to heal the deep wounds of racism in the United States of America, get your copy of Bridges to Heal US today!
Reviews
Tracy C.
5.0 out of 5 stars Engaging, Empathetic, and Empowering!
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on August 6, 2021
Having attended some of the author's training in the past, I was left inspired - but craving more. This book gave me that; in fact, it felt like I was invited to sit down and have an intensely personal and remarkably honest conversation with this amazing educator. As a white teacher absolutely committed to embracing equity, diversity, and inclusion in my classroom - - - but not quite sure how to align my actions with my intentions, I was convinced Jones was speaking directly to me. In the first chapter ("I See You") she writes , "I watched you trying to provide support to friends. . . and children who were trying to navigate already complicated conversations about race and justice. I watched you struggle with what to say, feeling helpless at times to find the right words." After convincing me she understands where I am coming from, Jones then shares poignant personal stories and observations to help me to see how I got there and where to go next. The book offers practical and achievable advice to help me move into the brave spaces I aspire to create and occupy. If you are looking for a way to be part of healing that needs to happen in our communities and in our schools, buy this book. When you put it down, you'll want to pick up the phone and talk with others about what to do next. My colleagues and I are using it to help us move forward. Join us!
seatownlady
5.0 out of 5 stars Excited to dive in…
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on February 17, 2023
As an educator, I am on constantly trying to learn more and do better by my students. Erin Jones has been such a huge influence for teachers, myself included.
Dawn Grossman
5.0 out of 5 stars Great focus on relationships, healing, moving forward - authentic, a great read
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on August 12, 2021
"Bridges to Heal US," by Erin Jones, is outstanding! I highly recommend it. I've recently been reading Ta-Nehisi Coates (I especially found "Between the World and Me" moving), and read Ijeoma Oluo's "So, you want to talk about race" (which I also recommend), and Robin DiAngelo's "White Fragility."
I read Erin Jones book in just a couple of sittings. Very engaging. Authentic. Direct. I especially appreciate the emphasis on healing and finding ways forward. She does not pull any punches, while conveying a hopeful tone and sharing practical perspectives on working towards relationship building and reconciliation.
Her personal story is compelling. She uses it well to share insights and perspectives. I highly recommend "Bridges to Heal US"!
I'm working to improve my understanding of how I can be better re: race relations. Mostly it is personal - I think it is the right thing to do. Part of it is practical - 40% of my clients, and their customers or clients, are not non-hispanic whites, and that 40% is increasing. For people under 16 in the US, non-hispanic whites are less than 50% of the population. It doesn't take a mathematician to see the importance of engaging in these discussions.
